New Delhi: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have signed a “Hosting Rights Agreement” for the Champions Trophy 2025, confirming Pakistan as the official host of the tournament. The agreement was signed between PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf and ICC General Counsel Jonathan Hall at the ICC headquarters in Dubai.
With this agreement, Pakistan’s hosting rights have been legally solidified. The PCB has sought assurances from the Pakistan government regarding foolproof security arrangements for the foreign teams participating in the tournament. Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq has pledged full cooperation from all security agencies to ensure a smooth and secure event.
However, the question remains whether Team India will participate in the tournament given the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. A recent report quoted BCCI sources expressing that the board is unlikely to send the team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. The decision hinges on the Indian government’s stance towards Pakistan, which has not shown signs of changing.
If India does not participate, the tournament could potentially be relocated to another country, similar to the Asia Cup 2023, where some matches were held in Pakistan, but the majority, including Team India’s matches and the final, took place in Sri Lanka. In such a scenario, Pakistan would retain the hosting rights and its share of the revenue generated from the tournament.
The Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place in Pakistan, but the uncertainty surrounding India’s participation casts a shadow over the event. The final decision on India’s participation will depend on the Indian government’s stance and whether alternative arrangements can be made to accommodate India’s concerns.
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