The Champions Trophy saga continues to heat up as the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejects reports of an emergency meeting and tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reach new heights. The future of the tournament hangs in the balance as both boards remain resolute in their positions, with Pakistan reaffirming its determination to host the event.
Indian media recently claimed that the ICC had scheduled a meeting for November 26 to discuss a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, aimed at persuading Pakistan to accept the proposal. However, the ICC swiftly dismissed these reports as baseless, with sources close to the organization expressing no knowledge of such a meeting.
Pakistan’s stance remains firm. PCB Chairman Najam Sethi has made it clear that the country will not back down from its commitment to hosting the tournament. He added that if others choose not to attend, they are free to stay away, but the event will be held in Pakistan, and the hybrid model is unacceptable. Furthermore, the PCB has hinted that if India persists with its objections, Pakistan could refuse to play against India in future ICC events.
With the deadline for the Champions Trophy schedule set by broadcasting companies now passed, the deadlock persists. The ICC faces mounting pressure from broadcasters, while the rigid positions of both India and Pakistan only complicate matters. The situation may become even more tense, particularly with the upcoming election of BCCI Secretary Jay Shah as the new ICC Chairman on December 1.
Amidst all this uncertainty, Indian media has also reported that discussions surrounding the hybrid model may involve relocating the venue to a neutral site if India qualifies for the semi-finals or final of the tournament.
