The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing mounting criticism over its alleged favoritism towards India, with many questioning whether the governing body’s decisions are tilting the sport’s balance unfairly. While India’s dominance in world cricket is undeniable, recent developments—including the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy—have fueled concerns that structural advantages, financial influence, and questionable ICC policies are giving India an undue edge.
The Scheduling Controversy: A Level Playing Field or Home Advantage?
One of the biggest points of contention is the scheduling of ICC tournaments. India played all its matches at home during the 2023 ODI World Cup, leading to accusations that conditions were tailored to their strengths. The 2025 Champions Trophy intensified these concerns, as India played all their games, including the semi-final, at a single venue while other teams had to travel across different locations, dealing with varied pitch conditions and exhausting schedules.
How Legends Respond Over it ?
Former England captain Nasser Hussain criticized the arrangement, stating,
“If one team enjoys home-like conditions throughout while others navigate different venues, it raises serious questions about fairness.” West Indian legend Andy Roberts went further, warning that international cricket risks becoming “a one-nation show where the rest merely participate.”
Australian captain Pat Cummins has also criticisized India for what he sees as a troubling trend—choosing when and where they want to play international cricket.
Former English Cricketer David Lloyd Slams ICC Over Champions Trophy 2025 Scheduling, Calls It “Embarrassing” and “Laughable“
Pat Cummins says India have an advantage over other teams as they will play all their games in Dubai.
The issue is not just about India’s talent—which is world-class—but about the perception that tournament structures are being designed in a way that benefits them disproportionately.
Interestingly, the renowned newspaper The Guardian headlined its article as
“We should love this India team but Champions trphy triumph felt a hollow triumph”. Rohit Sharma’s side is all time great but indian dominance has created imbelence and overdependence ,
India’s Financial Dominance and ICC’s Revenue Model
A key factor behind India’s growing influence is its financial clout. Under the ICC’s latest revenue-sharing model, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) receives nearly 40% of ICC’s total earnings—more than what all other cricket boards and 96 associate nations receive combined.
This financial disparity has made many cricket boards dependent on India for survival. South Africa, for instance, posted profits of £34.5 million in 2023-24, largely due to hosting India for an all-format tour. Cricket South Africa’s CEO, Pholetsi Moseki, admitted, “India is too crucial in the cricket ecosystem. No board can afford to distance itself from them.”
This reliance has created a situation where national cricket boards hesitate to challenge ICC decisions, fearing that opposing India could cost them lucrative tours and financial stability.
The ICC’s Leadership and Perceived Bias
Adding to the controversy is the role of Jay Shah, ICC chairman and BCCI secretary, whose visible support for the Indian team during the Champions Trophy final raised eyebrows. His celebrations with Indian players sparked criticism, as many argued that the head of an international governing body should maintain neutrality.
This has drawn comparisons to other sports, where such actions would be unacceptable. “Imagine FIFA’s president openly celebrating with the World Cup-winning team—it would cause an uproar,” remarked one analyst. The ICC’s perceived bias risks damaging its credibility and raising doubts about whether its leadership is acting in the best interest of the game.
Global Cricket at a Crossroads
If the ICC continues to be seen as favoring India, it could have long-term consequences for international cricket. While India’s success boosts revenues and viewership, cricket thrives on competitive balance. If other nations feel sidelined, interest in international tournaments could decline, leading to a shift towards domestic franchise leagues like The Hundred and the Big Bash.
Some boards are already adjusting their priorities. England and Australia, for example, are focusing more on their domestic leagues than relying on ICC events for financial stability. If more nations follow suit, international cricket could lose its prestige, reducing the global game to a fragmented competition dominated by one nation.
Can the ICC Restore Fairness?
To maintain its credibility, the ICC must address these concerns. Transparent decision-making, fair tournament scheduling, and a more balanced revenue-sharing model are essential to ensure that cricket remains a truly global sport.
India has the talent to dominate on its own merit. The real question is whether its victories will continue to be respected—or if the ICC’s perceived bias will cast a shadow over them. If the governing body does not take corrective action, it risks alienating the rest of the cricketing world and eroding the integrity of the game.