ICC Champions Trophy Returns Next Year Amid Uncertainty Over India-Pakistan Tensions

The ICC Champions Trophy is set to return next year, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. Pakistan, the defending champions, last hosted the tournament in 2017, before the ICC initially canceled future editions to streamline major tournaments for each format.

However, the decision was reversed in 2021, reinstating the Champions Trophy for 2025. The upcoming edition has sparked significant uncertainty regarding India’s participation due to strained political and diplomatic relations with Pakistan.

India’s involvement in the Champions Trophy remains doubtful as they are grouped with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Given the current tensions, India might refuse to travel to Pakistan, prompting the ICC to prepare contingency plans.

To address this potential issue, the ICC has reportedly allocated a budget of around $65 million to cover the costs of hosting matches outside of Pakistan, as decided during their recent AGM in Colombo.

The Chief Executives Committee (CEC) noted that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has signed the Host Agreement and collaborated with management on drafting an event budget, which has been submitted for approval.

The budget includes provisions for increased costs if it becomes necessary to relocate matches outside of Pakistan. The note also mentioned a planning meeting and venue inspections conducted in Pakistan in March 2024, highlighting significant renovation efforts at the three proposed venues to upgrade facilities.

The draft schedule indicates that India’s matches are set to be held in Lahore, including a much-anticipated face-off against Pakistan on March 1. India will also play against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on February 23, according to the current draft.

The arrangements are aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the tournament while addressing the possibility of India’s non-participation in Pakistan.

The return of the ICC Champions Trophy has brought excitement and concerns, particularly regarding India’s participation.

The ICC’s proactive measures and significant budget allocation underscore the importance of the tournament and the complexities involved in hosting it amid geopolitical tensions. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining the final arrangements and ensuring that the tournament proceeds as planned.