ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule likely to be delayed further

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule Faces Further Delay: Key Reasons Explained

The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 schedule is likely to face additional delays, with sources revealing ongoing issues between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The PCB has opposed the hybrid model and insists on boycotting India’s matches unless their team plays in Pakistan. Broadcasters, who depend on high-profile Pakistan-India clashes for revenue, are also unwilling to approve a schedule without this key matchup. The ICC is working towards a solution, but the final schedule is still uncertain.

Why the Delay?
The delay stems from ongoing disagreements over the tournament’s format and the critical Pakistan-India encounters. These matches are crucial for both TV viewership and revenue, and the broadcasters have made it clear they expect these clashes to be included. This situation is further complicated by political and logistical challenges between the two cricketing nations, especially after India’s refusal to send a team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup in 2023.

What’s at Stake?
The ICC has secured significant revenue from broadcasting rights and expects a substantial portion of this to come from India-Pakistan matchups. The success of these encounters is pivotal for the financial sustainability of global cricket events. With the stakes this high, it’s clear why the final schedule of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains in limbo.

What’s Next for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
The ICC is working behind the scenes to resolve the disagreements. A resolution may come in the next few days if stakeholders can find common ground. However, with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah set to take over as ICC Chairman on December 1, time is running out for a quick resolution.

Stay updated on the evolving situation and keep an eye out for the official schedule release as the ICC navigates these challenging hurdles.