pc: dna

There are less than 100 days left for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to be held in Pakistan, but the dates and schedules of the tournament have not been announced, further increasing the uncertainty surrounding the event. However, sources close to the development told IANS that the ICC is likely to finalize and announce the schedule by the end of this week following ongoing discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to address India's concerns. Is.

India, one of the eight participating nations, has refused to travel to Pakistan for the tournament citing government restrictions. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has conveyed its position to the ICC, forcing the PCB to seek clarification for India's stance.

In response, the PCB is reportedly considering taking the matter to Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if no solution is found. The PCB is firm on its stance of hosting the event entirely in Pakistan, and is opposed to any compromise formula as seen during the 2023 Asia Cup and ODI World Cup.

During the 2023 Asia Cup, the PCB reluctantly agreed to a hybrid model, with India's matches being held in Sri Lanka. Later, during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan participated despite strong objections from its government. These examples highlight the political and logistical complexities that may once again come into play.

Amidst the uncertainty, the ICC has introduced the Trophy Tour for the Champions Trophy 2025 to boost excitement for the tournament. The tour began on Saturday in Pakistan's capital Islamabad, where the iconic silverware was displayed at sites including Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque and the Pakistan Memorial. The launch event was attended by cricket legend Shoaib Akhtar, who accompanied the trophy to its stops in the city.

The ICC is working to address India's travel concerns, but the solution remains uncertain.