The International Cricket Council (ICC) has delayed finalizing the schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy due to India’s refusal to participate in the tournament, which is set to be held in Pakistan. This decision comes after ongoing discussions between the ICC and member nations, with India standing firm on not playing in Pakistan, according to Express News.
The schedule, initially planned for release on November 11, 2024, has been postponed to allow for further deliberations, as India’s stance on the event has created complications. With less than 100 days remaining until the tournament, which is scheduled to run from February 19 to March 19, 2025, ICC officials are still negotiating with the host nation, Pakistan, and other participating teams, but no final confirmation has been made on the schedule.
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The delay follows reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally communicated its refusal to send a team to Pakistan. There has been no official response from India regarding the proposed hybrid model, which would have allowed India to participate remotely. Pakistan, however, has made it clear that it does not support this model.
The Champions Trophy will feature the world’s top eight cricket teams, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and one other team, all of which will be divided into two groups for the competition.
Meanwhile, former Pakistan cricketers have urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take a firm stance on India’s refusal to participate. Former captain Rashid Latif suggested that Pakistan might consider boycotting future ICC events if India continues to opt out of the 2025 Champions Trophy. He emphasized that the tournament is an ICC event, with binding agreements signed by member nations, broadcasters, and sponsors for events from 2024 to 2031. Latif referenced the 1996 World Cup, when Australia and the West Indies refused to play in Sri Lanka due to security concerns, yet the island nation still successfully hosted the event and went on to win the title. He warned that accommodating India’s demands, such as adjusting to a hybrid model, would cause significant disappointment.
The PCB has yet to respond officially to India’s position, but the delay in finalizing the schedule reflects the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the event.
