ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Venue Talks Stalled Again
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 venue talks have hit a roadblock. The ICC postponed its latest meeting on the matter. The talks will now continue on December 7. There is no resolution yet between the PCB and ICC on the proposed hybrid model.
PCB Boycott Threat Looms Over Hybrid Model Talks
Tensions rose after India refused to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament, due to security concerns. It demanded a hybrid hosting model. The PCB, led by Mohsin Naqvi, threatened to boycott the event. However, it has not confirmed its stance after the latest ICC meeting.
Despite ongoing efforts, Thursday’s meeting in Dubai yielded no official progress. A report by The Times of India said the session lasted only 20 minutes. It showed a stalemate in the negotiations.
.@JayShah, the newly elected Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), paid a visit to the ICC Headquarters in Dubai on Thursday.
More here: https://t.co/FJsMuBvOjE pic.twitter.com/rU9phtUdZd
— ICC (@ICC) December 5, 2024
Jay Shah Takes Charge in First ICC Meeting
Newly-appointed ICC Chairman Jay Shah, the youngest ever, chaired his first meeting at the ICC’s Dubai . Shah was hopeful about improving the sport during his term. But, he knew it would be a challenge.
“This visit provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with my colleagues on the ICC Board where we discussed the initial roadmap and strategies to shape the future of this incredible sport,” Jay Shah told the ICC website. “I was equally delighted to meet with the dedicated ICC team working tirelessly behind the scenes to propel cricket forward.
“While I am encouraged by what I have seen, I recognize that this is just the beginning. The hard work to elevate cricket to unprecedented heights starts now, and I am confident that together, we will deliver on this vision.”
PCB Pushes for Consistency in Hybrid Model Rules
Reports suggest the PCB has conditionally agreed to the hybrid model. It allows Pakistan to retain full hosting rights for their matches. The PCB wants similar rules for other global tournaments, including those in India.
Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
The ninth Men’s ICC Champions Trophy will begin on February 19, 2025. The final is set for March 9, 2025. It is still unclear if the tournament will be in Pakistan or elsewhere before the December 7 meeting.
