The International Cricket Council is reportedly exploring alternative hosting options for upcoming major tournaments due to ongoing geopolitical tensions between Pakistan and India, according to a report by The Sydney Morning Herald.
Australia is being considered as a potential host for the ICC Champions Trophy 2029 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, originally scheduled to take place in India, with Bangladesh set as co-host for the 2031 World Cup. The discussions come amid uncertainties that surfaced during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan had initially announced a boycott of its February 15 group-stage match against India, following Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament due to security concerns. However, after diplomatic efforts involving the Pakistan Cricket Board, ICC officials, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board, Pakistan agreed to play to avoid an estimated $250 million financial loss.
Cricketing ties between Pakistan and India have long been strained. The Asia Cup 2024, held after the May 2025 war, saw Indian players and their captain refuse the traditional post-match handshake with Pakistani players. Since December 2024, the PCB and Board of Control for Cricket in India agreed to a hybrid model for ICC events, playing matches at neutral venues instead of hosting each other.
Australia has a proven track record as a neutral venue for high-profile Pakistan–India matches. During the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, 41,587 fans attended the Adelaide Oval clash, and the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match at Melbourne Cricket Ground drew 90,293 spectators, reflecting strong fan engagement.
The ICC’s contingency discussions aim to ensure major tournaments proceed without disruption and maintain safety and neutrality for teams amid ongoing political tensions in the region.
Also read: Will Pakistan Play India On 15th February?
