ICC likely to decide Champions Trophy fate tomorrow after today’s meeting adjourned

DUBAI: The stalemate continues over finalising the schedule of the Champion Trophy 2025 as the International Cricket Council (ICC) executive board meeting has been adjourned till Saturday (tomorrow).

The executive board meeting today failed to decide a one-point agenda regarding the fate of the Champions Trophy that is whether Pakistan will retain its hosting rights or the tournament will be played at the hybrid model over India’s request.

ESPNcricinfo, a cricket website, reported that the International Cricket Council (ICC), during today’s meeting which lasted less than 15 minutes, instructed the board members including the PCB and BCCI to come up with a way forward that is acceptable to all parties.

The ICC was to announce the schedule of the eight-nation tournament by Nov 20 but due to BCCI’s refusal to travel the host nation, it has been delayed.

The ICC Board, which comprises representatives from all 12 full member countries, will likely make a final call on the 2025 Champions Trophy venue over the weekend.

The options on the agenda include

As per reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has communicated its firm stance to the ICC, with Chairman Mohsin Naqvi saying: “Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved.”

While speaking to the media on Thursday, the PCB Chairman on Thursday assured that the board would protect the best interests of cricket in Pakistan during the International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting.

Earlier, Dawn, citing a PCB official, reported, “The PCB has informed the ICC not to present any hybrid model in Friday’s meeting as our government has refused to accept it. If the ICC presents a solution other than the hybrid model, the PCB will again move to its government to get its approval”.