Deadlock Over ICC Champions Trophy Hosting: Pakistan Demands Equal Treatment in New Formula

Islamabad:Negotiations are ongoing to resolve the deadlock over the hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy, with a new formula being considered to break the impasse. Pakistan is set to host the tournament this year, but India has announced it will not send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns and other reasons. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected the hybrid model proposal, which would have seen some matches played at neutral venues.

The PCB has firmly stated that the Champions Trophy will not be moved to a neutral venue without a valid reason. Furthermore, PCB officials have emphasized that if ICC insists on a neutral venue for the tournament, Pakistan will never play in India for any future ICC events.

On Saturday, the ICC’s second board meeting regarding the Champions Trophy hosting decision was postponed. Meanwhile, reports from Indian media suggest that the PCB has conditionally agreed to the hybrid model for this edition of the Champions Trophy. Pakistan’s condition, however, is that the same model should apply to future ICC events held in India, meaning if India does not play in Pakistan, Pakistan should not be expected to play in India.

Sources say that discussions are continuing to finalize a new formula that could end the current deadlock. Pakistan has made it clear that it values its dignity and respect over financial gain, and insists that any solution must be based on equality. The proposal is to establish a new formula that would not only apply to the Champions Trophy but would also govern all ICC events for the next three years.

PCB Chairman, Najam Sethi, stressed that the goal is to secure a fair and balanced decision for the country’s cricket, noting that any solution should ensure equal participation for both Pakistan and India. He stated that it would be unacceptable for Pakistan to play in India if India is not willing to play in Pakistan.

The ICC board meeting is expected to be held in the next 48 hours, where this critical issue will be discussed further.