By Zainab Shafiq 
The intrigue over where the Champions Trophy 2025 will be held continues, as the ICC Board granted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) more time to work with the ICC and BCCI on a viable solution. A final decision is expected by the weekend.
Members of the ICC Board concurred on the need for further discussion involving PCB, BCCI, and ICC leadership as well as other member boards during a virtual meeting that lasted less than 15 minutes on Friday. Any resolution will then be subject to the approval of both the Indian and Pakistani governments, which complicates things.
Key Options Being Considered for Champions Trophy 2025
The ICC Board, comprising representatives of all 12 Full Member nations, is considering three primary options to address the venue issue. These include:
- A hybrid model, where most matches take place in Pakistan, while India’s games are played at neutral venues. Hosting the whole tournament outside Pakistan but allow the PCB to retain official hosting rights.
- Playing all matches in Pakistan but without Indian participation.
This uncertainty arose when the BCCI stated that the Indian government would not permit the national team to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.
The situation highlights the problems associated with hosting international cricket events across nations that have strained political relationships. The PCB has publically opposed the hybrid model and remains committed to what it deems best for Pakistan cricket. The BCCI, on the other hand, has been unyielding, basing its argument on government directives.
The ICC Board insisted that there should be a compromise solution acceptable to all parties concerned. However, this depends on politically sensitive issues. A verdict that will shape the fate of major cricket tournaments in the region is likely to reach the cricket fans for them to have clarity.
Time running out, the PCB, BCCI, and ICC must now grapple with how to align on a solution that satisfies competitive, logistical, and political considerations. Until then, the mystery surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 venue deepens.
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