Cricket

Pakistan's participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is in jeopardy following India's refusal to travel to the country for the tournament. According to sources within the Pakistan government, the country may withdraw from the event if its hosting rights are revoked.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed its intention to seek clarification from the ICC regarding the hosting arrangements. The PCB has only been informed of India's decision not to participate but has not received any official communication about a potential hybrid model.Under a hybrid model, India's matches would be played in a neutral venue while other matches would be held in Pakistan. This approach was adopted during the Asia Cup last year.The PCB is awaiting policy guidelines from the government regarding its stance on India. The government's decision will be cited in the PCB's request for clarification from the ICC.The PCB source emphasized that the ICC could face legal implications if the Pakistan government decides to take a tough stance on cricket relations with India.The situation remains fluid, and the PCB is in consultation with the government to determine its next steps.

India's Participation in Pakistan-Hosted Champions Trophy Uncertain, Warns Former PCB ChiefFormer Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Khalid Mahmood has cast doubt on India's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled to be held in Pakistan early next year. Mahmood, a retired senior bureaucrat, expressed concerns about the potential financial and operational consequences for both the PCB and the ICC if India chooses not to attend.Mahmood emphasized that India's absence could set a precedent for other cricketing nations, further complicating the event's logistics and profitability. "India is the richest cricket board and carries a lot of clout," he said. "If they don't send their team to Pakistan, I foresee even countries like Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh following their path."He warned that such a scenario would significantly reduce the Champions Trophy's revenue potential and increase expenses, leading to a decline in profits. Mahmood advised the PCB to maintain its stance of separating sports from politics to avoid further complications."At this level, you can only lobby and try to convince other boards to be on your side," he said. "India has too much clout in the ICC. It would do no good for Pakistan to adopt a tit-for-tat strategy."Mahmood acknowledged that India's decision to play its matches outside Pakistan would diminish the purpose of Pakistan hosting the ICC event. The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held from February 19 to March 9, 2023.