An enormous boost was given to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) quest to host the ICC Champions Trophy when the ICC expressed satisfaction with the main event’s preparations. According to PCB president Mohsin Naqvi, an ICC mission is now in Pakistan to observe the processes, and the group has approved of the preparations. The group expressed satisfaction with the prompt stadium renovations and strong security protocols.

A PCB spokesman, cited by Cricket Pakistan, said that the team assessed the preparations in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. Before departing for Dubai on September 21, the five-member group will stop in Lahore today to see the preparations at the Gaddafi Stadium.

This is a huge step forward, as it virtually verifies the ICC’s desire to hold the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The PCB and the ICC team, led by Senior Manager of Events Sarah Edgar, spoke on a number of key event-related topics, including logistics, accommodations, and security procedures.

Will India Go On An ICC Champions Trophy Tour Into Pakistan?

Both PCB and ICC would want to see India compete in the tournament, despite ICC’s backing for Pakistan; nonetheless, there is a slim chance that India may withdraw. Since the 2008 Asia Cup, India has not visited Pakistan, and it is unclear whether they will play the Champions Trophy there. India will require official consent before going on a tour to Pakistan, and considering their existing relationship with Pakistan, it seems doubtful that they would be granted permission to play there.

It is quite probable that BCCI would advocate for a hybrid approach; however, PCB has already said that all matches will be held in Pakistan. In case both boards choose to maintain their strict stance, India can choose to withdraw from the agreement. In such a scenario, Sri Lanka would take their place, but the financial profits of PCB and ICC would be harmed.

What Position Will Jay Shah Hold?

Jay Shah has been elected head of the Indian Cricket Council (ICC), and all eyes will be on him to handle the Champions Trophy drama. December will see Jay Shah assume leadership of the office, and the Champions Trophy game is scheduled for February or March. Jay Shah would mostly stick to the present plan of holding the Champions Trophy in Pakistan if the competition had to relocate outside of Pakistan or be played under a hybrid format. Two to three months would not be enough time to make alternative preparations.