Another day and yet another bizarre threat emerges from Pakistan. With India unwilling to travel to the neighbouring country for Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is all set to demand a written proof from BCCI should India refuse to go to Pakistan. The ICC is expected to pitch a hybrid model for the marquee event at the behest of India, which is also expected to be vehemently opposed by the PCB.
Pakistan’s weird demand from India over CT 2025
As per Cricket Pakistan, the PCB wants a written letter from the BCCI submitted to the ICC if the Indian government declines permission for the side to travel to Pakistan. The report added that the PCB insists that India submit its travel plans to Pakistan in writing to the ICC 5-6 months before the Champions Trophy 2025.
“If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.
The tournament is scheduled to be held in February-March 2025. While the plan is for Pakistan to host the tournament entirely, it might not be the case, given India’s objections.
Pakistan’s Loss
Last year, during the Asia Cup also, Team India had refused to travel to Pakistan, and their matches were hosted by Sri Lanka. If the hybrid model is followed at the Champions Trophy as well, then Pakistan could suffer losses in revenue. Moreover, if India goes further in the tournament, then the semis and finals could also be moved out of Pakistan.
Apart from that, it is being widely reported, that once again India and Pakistan will be kept in the same group, Group A. It will also have New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B will comprise of Australia, England, South Africa and Afghanistan.
