The BCCI is set to propose a hybrid model for the upcoming Champions Trophy in 2025 during the ICC’s annual conference to be held between July 19 and 22 in Colombo.
BCCI Set to Propose Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy
BCCI wants the Champions Trophy to be played in a Hybrid model just like Asia Cup 2023 as India is unlikely to travel to Pakistan. But the Pakistan Cricket Board was the entire event to be hosted by their own country.
As a result, the upcoming ICC annual conference will feature a clash between BCCI and PCB discussing the ICC event scheduled in Pakistan. Jay Shah will attend the meeting and will also have direct conversations with PCB officials.
Shah will be traveling to Colombo on Thursday to attend the meetings, which will conclude with the Annual General Meeting on July 22. India has resisted traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy is not on the AGM’s agenda, but is expected to be the biggest one to be discussed.
BCCI would likely cite government approval as the reason for resisting travel to Pakistan. The Champions Trophy is returning after nine years and is scheduled to be played between February 19 and March 9.
As per the initial schedule, India will have their matches scheduled in Lahore. The tournament starts in Karachi on February 19 and the final will be played in Lahore on March 09.
According to BCCI sources, currently, there is no chance of traveling to Pakistan and the ICC has allocated an additional budget for any other plans.
“The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on,” said a source.
If India does not travel to Pakistan BCCI must propose to hose the tournament in a ‘hybrid model’ where India can play their matches in UAE or Sri Lanka.
“If the Indian government declines permission, it has to be in writing, and it is mandatory for the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now. “It is a fact that we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing,” concluded a PCB source.
