PCB Demands Written Explanation from India for Champions Trophy Refusal

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is seeking a clear, written statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. The PCB has formally asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to provide a written explanation from India’s side, along with a reason for their refusal.

The ICC informed the PCB last Friday that India’s government did not approve the Indian cricket team’s travel to Pakistan for the tournament. However, the PCB wants this refusal in writing, along with specific reasons. The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan across three major cities—Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi—from February 9 to March 9.

PCB Rejects Hybrid Model, Insists on Full Hosting Rights

The PCB has made it clear there is “no chance” of hosting the tournament in a hybrid model. This setup, which was previously used for the 2023 Asia Cup, allowed India to play their matches at a neutral venue while Pakistan hosted other teams at home. Although there have been discussions about using the UAE as a second venue, the PCB is firm that the entire tournament will be held exclusively in Pakistan.

This strong stance is partly due to past events when the PCB had to adopt a hybrid model for the Asia Cup. Pakistan then traveled to India for the ICC World Cup, hoping that India would return the favor by participating in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The PCB believes it’s only fair for India to reciprocate.

Pakistani Government’s Role in Decision-Making

With Pakistan’s government now involved, the PCB’s hosting decisions may ultimately be under government control. Mohsin Naqvi, Pakistan’s current Interior Minister and the new PCB chairman, has taken a stand to ensure the tournament takes place in Pakistan.

The PCB is also highlighting that Pakistan was awarded the hosting rights three years ago, and no objections were raised then or during recent ICC meetings. During an ICC board meeting in October, the PCB even shared updates about their preparations for the Champions Trophy and had plans for an official 100-day countdown event on November 11, which has now been postponed.

As things stand, the PCB awaits a response from the ICC and BCCI regarding India’s stance, hoping for a solution that respects Pakistan’s rights as the official host of the Champions Trophy.