Champions Trophy 2025: The Potential Losses for Pakistan Amid Growing Controversy
Uncertainty continues to loom over the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which Pakistan will host. The controversy stems from the Indian government’s reluctance to permit Team India’s participation in Pakistan.
As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has proposed conducting the tournament in a hybrid model, a move that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) opposes.
The BCCI has officially communicated its stance to the PCB via the International Cricket Council (ICC) and has requested that matches involving India be played at a neutral venue through a formal email.
The PCB, expressing disinterest in hosting the tournament under a hybrid model, has requested written clarification of BCCI and ICC’s positions.
This ongoing disagreement has cast a shadow over the tournament’s fate. According to a report by ‘Cricbuzz,’ if the PCB refuses to comply, it may face negative consequences, including potential ICC sanctions.
One significant impact could be substantially reduced ICC funding for the PCB. If the tournament is shifted to another country or postponed, the PCB could incur losses of up to $65 million (approximately ₹548 crore) in hosting fees.
The PCB recently modernized stadiums in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore in preparation for the Champions Trophy, which could lead to further financial strain if the tournament does not proceed as planned.
The PCB has reiterated that security is not a concern, citing the successful hosting of bilateral series against England and New Zealand.
The PCB assured the ICC that similar safety standards would be maintained for the Champions Trophy as well.
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