Pakistan Demands Written Assurance from BCCI Amid Champions Trophy 2025 Row

Pakistan Demands Written Assurance from BCCI Amid Champions Trophy 2025 Row

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made it clear that they require a written assurance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the Indian government’s stance on traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. This mandate comes in light of the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the tournament, which is scheduled to be held in February-March next year.

A PCB official, who is closely involved with the tournament’s organizing committee, emphasized the need for clarity well in advance of the tournament dates. “If the Indian government declines permission, it must be in writing, and it is mandatory for the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the source said. This request aims to resolve any potential issues before they escalate, given the critical nature of the Champions Trophy.

The PCB has already submitted a draft schedule to the ICC, with all of India’s matches, including a possible semi-final and final, slated to take place in Lahore. The highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match is scheduled for March 1. The tournament is set to kick off in Karachi on February 19 and will conclude with the final in Lahore on March 9, with a reserve day on March 10 in case of bad weather. Additionally, some matches will be held in Rawalpindi.

Historically, the BCCI has maintained that decisions regarding playing in Pakistan are dependent on government directives. During the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, hosted by the PCB, India played all their matches in Sri Lanka under a ‘Hybrid Model’ due to security concerns.

Despite the upcoming ICC annual conference in Colombo on July 19 not having ‘Hybrid Model’ discussions on its agenda, the global cricket body has set aside additional funds to cover potential extra costs if the tournament requires a two-country format. A BCCI source noted, “At this point, there is no chance of traveling to Pakistan. The ICC has allocated an additional budget to accommodate any emergency plans, should such a situation arise.”

The PCB’s insistence on receiving a formal letter from the BCCI is a strategic move to ensure that all parties are on the same page regarding travel permissions and the tournament’s logistics. As the Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, the cricketing world eagerly awaits a resolution to this diplomatic standoff, hoping for a smooth and successful event.