Champions Trophy 2025 row: PCB asks BCCI to give written proof of Indian govt's denial of permission to play in Pak
PTC News Desk: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked the BCCI to give written proof of the Indian government's refusal of permission if the team refuses to come here for next year's Champions Trophy, a travel ban on security grounds, according to a PCB source.
The host Board also wants the issue resolved as quickly as possible, given that the event is slated for February-March. While the ICC annual meeting, which will be held in Colombo on July 19, does not include a discussion on the 'Hybrid Model' of India playing games in the UAE, the global organisation has, as usual, set aside additional funds in case it becomes a two-country event.
"If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now," the PCB source stated. "It is a fact that the we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing," it added.
The BCCI has always maintained that playing cricket in Pakistan is entirely a government decision, and even the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, which was hosted by the PCB, saw India play all of its games in Sri Lanka using the 'Hybrid Model'.
The PCB has already submitted a draft schedule to the ICC, with all of India's games, including a likely semi-final and final, slated for Lahore. The showpiece match between India and Pakistan is slated for March 1.
The tournament will begin in Karachi on February 19 and end with the final in Lahore on March 9. In the event of adverse weather, the final will be held on March 10. Several matches will also be staged in Rawalpindi.
- PTC NEWS
