India’s decision to skip next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan has sparked a big clash between the two long-time rivals, India and Pakistan, leaving the International Cricket Council (ICC) in a tricky situation. This will be the first Champions Trophy in seven years, and now there’s uncertainty hanging over it.
The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has informed the ICC that India will not be travelling to Pakistan for the tournament. In response, the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) has reportedly written to the ICC, asking them to understand India’s reasoning for this decision.
Initially, there was an option for a “hybrid model,” where India could play its matches at a neutral venue. However, reports say the PCB has now rejected this model.
Former PCB chairman Najam Sethi weighed in on the matter, advising the Pakistan board to stay calm and not let emotions drive their decisions. Sethi, speaking to Samaa TV, emphasized, “One thing to remember is that ICC will always lean towards India.” He pointed out that if the tournament moves to places like Sri Lanka or Dubai, and Pakistan chooses not to participate, it could hurt both countries’ revenues. ICC’s earnings are divided, with a big share going to India and a smaller but significant share going to Pakistan.
According to Sethi, India is financially strong enough to handle any revenue loss. However, a drop in revenue would impact Pakistan significantly. Sethi was the PCB chairman when last year’s Asia Cup, hosted by Pakistan, was played in a hybrid model due to India’s refusal to visit. In that setup, India played all their matches in Sri Lanka, while the rest of the tournament happened in Pakistan.
Sethi questioned whether the PCB’s decision to reject both the hybrid model and the option to play in another country is wise. “If you don’t play in ICC events in the future, then you’re essentially isolating yourself from ICC tournaments. And if that happens, what’s left apart from the bilateral series? Bilateral cricket doesn’t bring in much revenue since it’s reciprocal.”
He further added that Pakistan would face difficulties if they exit ICC events. “India has its reasons for not coming, and they have the resources to back their stand. But what’s Pakistan’s strategy here? Whoever is making these decisions should really think logically, not emotionally.”
Sethi hinted that Pakistan’s firm stand might be a diplomatic strategy. He wondered if the PCB’s stance could be a way to negotiate for more matches in Pakistan—maybe hosting 8-10 games instead of 4-6. “Is this a tactic? I’m not sure,” he said.
The Champions Trophy is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. To address India’s security concerns, the PCB has offered to host all of India’s matches in Lahore, allowing Indian players to cross over from the Attari border, near Amritsar, and return home the same day.
