The International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled an online meeting for Friday, November 29, to resolve the ongoing dispute over the Champions Trophy, CricBuzz has reported.
The uncertainty arose after India decided not to travel to Pakistan. The ICC aims to reach a final decision that all member boards must follow.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has opposed a hybrid model for the tournament, which is set for February 19 to March 9, featuring 15 games. This model would host 10 games in Pakistan and the remaining 5 in another country. The ICC might propose hosting both semifinals and the final in Pakistan if India does not qualify for these stages, despite the operational challenges.
The ICC has not yet decided where to hold India’s games if the hybrid model is approved. The UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) and South Africa are potential venues due to favorable conditions.
The PCB is likely to resist the hybrid model initially, but with strong support from other ICC board members, it may have no choice but to agree. If the hybrid model is rejected, the ICC might move the entire tournament out of Pakistan.
PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi might seek government consultation before agreeing. The PCB and the Pakistan government may eventually concede since hosting the Champions Trophy without India would be financially damaging.
Pakistan’s potential withdrawal from future Indian-hosted tournaments, including the Women’s World Cup and men’s Asia Cup next year, remains a concern. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) might consider moving the Asia Cup from India to Sri Lanka or Bangladesh to ease tensions.