ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is shrouded in uncertainty as discussions continue around the venue, primarily due to the strained relations between India and Pakistan. The tournament, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, is supposed to take place in Pakistan, but logistical challenges related to travel approvals and diplomatic sensitivities have raised questions about whether it can proceed as planned.
Recent statements by Rashid Latif, the former Pakistan wicketkeeper, revealed insights from the ICC's recent governing board meeting, which initially aimed to finalize the venues and match schedule. Latif mentioned on social media, “Deadlock. The ICC emergency Board meeting today wasn't productive. It will be tomorrow or the day after.” His comments highlight the complex web of discussions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) which continue as these two cricketing giants navigate the complications of government consent required for travel.
The heart of the issue lies with India’s stance of not traveling to Pakistan for any cricketing events, citing security concerns and political tensions. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been vocal about wanting the tournament held entirely on Pakistani soil, which poses significant challenges with India’s refusal to participate. This puts the ICC in a tough position, as the situation is reminiscent of last year’s Men’s 50-over Asia Cup where India played their matches exclusively out of Colombo due to similar concerns.
The total lineup for the Champions Trophy comprises eight teams split across two groups, with semifinals leading to the finals. The PCB continues to inspire confidence among its fans and stakeholders for the full execution of the event within Pakistan, yet with India hesitating, there is looming speculation of adopting a hybrid model similar to the Asia Cup, where some matches could potentially be played outside Pakistan.
Adding to the debate, Kamran Akmal, another former star cricketer from Pakistan, weighed in on when it would be appropriate to stage matches between India and Pakistan. He articulated, “The ICC should not schedule Indo-Pak matches until they resume bilateral series.” Akmal expressed disappointment over how the scheduling is being handled, emphasizing fairness and consistency.
He primarily advocates for the idea of barring matches until bilateral relations are reinstated. “If the hybrid model is accepted for the Champions Trophy, it should set the precedent for all ICC events hosted by India,” he suggested.
Highlighting the tension, Akmal stated India's reluctance to come to Pakistan was followed by their eagerness to have matches held on their home turf. He characterized this situation as double standards. With Pakistan operating under the pressure of substantial historical background — they have not hosted any ICC events since 1996 — and India’s absence from bilateral engagements since 2012-13, the gridlock continues against the backdrop of cricket's immense popularity across both nations.
Both Latif’s and Akmal’s sentiments resonate with the current scenario involving the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and underline the pressing need for dialogue and resolution, emphasizing the importance of cricket as more than just sport but also as touchpoint for diplomacy and connection.
Moving forward, the upcoming ICC Board meeting is expected to tackle these issues head-on, but the response (or lack thereof) may shape the future of international cricket between these two storied rivals.