ICC will decide the future of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan after India refused to travel there on November 29.
According to the sources of Leaders Asia, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has planned to meet this week to address the future of the 2025 tournament, as India’s refusal to play in Pakistan has left its fate uncertain. Earlier, the ICC informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that India would not participate in the eight-team event if it is organized in Pakistan.
Tensions between the two countries, who have fought three wars since 1947, often spill over into cricket. A Dubai-based ICC spokesperson confirmed that the issue will be discussed in Friday’s meeting but did not provide any more details.
As per Leaders Asia sources, the PCB has rejected suggestions to move India’s matches to a neutral venue, insisting that the tournament must take place entirely in Pakistan as planned from February 19 to March 9. PCB officials also dismissed security concerns, highlighting successful tours by Australia, England, and South Africa in recent years.
If the event proceeds, it will be the first ICC tournament held in Pakistan since the country co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan is also the defending Champions Trophy winner, having won the title in 2017.
