Champions Trophy 2025: PCB chief urges long-term equality in ICC event hosting

As uncertainty surrounds the hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized the need for a "long-term formula" that ensures equality and fairness for all International Cricket Council (ICC) events.

 Speaking to journalists in Dubai on Saturday, Naqvi reiterated Pakistan's firm stance on rejecting one-sided decisions, particularly regarding India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns.

“We will not allow one-sided decisions. Decisions should be made based on equality,” Naqvi stated. 

He stressed that the resolution of the current impasse should extend beyond the Champions Trophy, laying the groundwork for equitable arrangements for all ICC tournaments.

The PCB has rejected the hybrid model proposed in Friday's virtual ICC meeting, under which India’s matches would be held outside Pakistan. 

While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sought additional time to address the matter, Naqvi made it clear that Pakistan’s compliance with ICC events hosted in India must be reciprocated.

“This is not acceptable. Every time Pakistan is required to play in India, we comply. Yet, when it is India’s turn to play in Pakistan, excuses are made,” he remarked.

“Many things are going on. I am not trying to say that everything is bad. We have given our point of view on some things. Indians have given their own. We will do what is best for cricket and we want cricket to win. That is the most important thing. And definitely with respect," PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi maintained. 

 "We are ready to do anything in the best interest of cricket. If we go to any formula, not just about hybrid formula, but if there is a new formula, it will be equal for everyone," he added. 

He also hinted at a ‘hybrid' model for hosting the trophy in 2025 with the condition that the same model be applied to ICC events scheduled in India until 2031.

 It is pertinent to mention that the tournament, scheduled to take place in Pakistan next year, has become a bone of contention between Pakistan and India, with the BCCI refusing to send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns despite assurances.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has expressed security concerns over sending the Indian team to Pakistan, leaving the decision to the BCCI.

  The PCB dismissed these fears, highlighting its successful hosting of international teams over the past six years and offering presidential-level security to all participating teams in the Champions Trophy.

“This tournament is a significant honour for our country. We will provide a world-class experience and state-guest-level protocol to all teams,” Naqvi assured.

The ICC Board has deferred a resolution, leaving the PCB, ICC, and BCCI to finalize the matter. Options under consideration include a potential postponement, rescheduling, or a backup host nation, with Sri Lanka emerging as a contender.

In a separate meeting with ICC Associate Member Committee Chairman Mubashir Usmani in Dubai, Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to host the Champions Trophy, calling for cricket to remain separate from politics.

The situation remains tense, with all eyes on the ICC’s next move to address the standoff between Pakistan and India over hosting rights.

Now the ball is in the ICC’s court. Its executive board is expected to address Pakistan's demands in the coming days.