(Source X)
The budget approval for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was a significant outcome of the Annual Conference of the International Cricket Council, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on July 22nd. According to reports from Cricket Pakistan, Pakistan will host the tournament in February-March next year.
The participation of the Indian cricket team had been a subject of uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. Initially, there were discussions about a hybrid model that could potentially allow matches involving India to be held at neutral venues. However, during the ICC meeting, it was reported that no such proposal was formally raised by any nation, including India.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), represented by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, reiterated their stance that the entire ICC Champions Trophy 2025 should be hosted in Pakistan without adopting a hybrid model. They have confirmed Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore as the designated venues. Notably, Lahore has been specifically designated for matches involving India to minimize logistical challenges and ensure smooth arrangements.
This decision marks a firm position by the PCB and suggests a commitment to hosting the tournament as planned, with specific measures taken to accommodate concerns related to the participation of the Indian team.
ICC has approved the Rs12.80 billion budget prepared by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the Champions Trophy 2025.
During the Annual Conference of the International Cricket Council, significant progress was made towards the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, including the approval of its budget. The budget, crafted by ICC Chief Finance Officer Ankur Khanna and PCB Chief Finance Officer Javed Murtaza, totals Rs12.80 billion. This allocation is earmarked for the enhancement of three key stadiums: Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, which will host the tournament.
Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, the ICC Champions Trophy marks a notable return since its last edition in 2017. Amidst discussions around the participation of the Indian team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not advocate for a hybrid model during the conference, hinting at a potential participation in the tournament hosted in Pakistan.
Historically, cricketing engagements between India and Pakistan have been limited due to political tensions, with bilateral series absent since 2008. Instead, their encounters have been restricted to ICC events and the Asia Cup, with recent visits by Pakistan to India for bilateral series in 2012-2013 and participation in global tournaments. The decision on India’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be closely watched given the geopolitical backdrop, highlighting the broader implications for cricket diplomacy.
