PCB Writes to ICC Over India’s Refusal to Play Champions Trophy in Pakistan
LAHORE: Amid uncertainty over India’s participation in the Champions Trophy, sources informed Geo News on Tuesday that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), requesting clarity on India’s decision not to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament.
The PCB’s letter follows recent verbal communication from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the ICC, indicating its intention to skip the tournament set to take place in Pakistan in February-March next year. After the ICC relayed this information to the PCB, the Pakistani board consulted with the government on how to proceed.
Seeking a solid position that aligns with government advice, the PCB has firmly opposed any “hybrid model” that would see Champions Trophy matches moved outside Pakistan.
Sources close to the matter emphasize that both Pakistan and India’s participation are critical for ICC’s revenue, and without their matches, ICC finances would be significantly impacted. Pakistan is considering boycotting ICC events in India altogether, as BCCI’s stance seems to intertwine politics with sports by refusing to play in Pakistan.
Such a move could have major financial implications for global cricket. Pakistan’s absence could weaken viewership and affect ICC’s projected revenue, particularly from broadcasters and sponsors. The ICC, which secured $3.2 billion from broadcasting rights for 2024-2027, relies heavily on high-profile matches like Pakistan vs. India to attract massive audiences.
The recent India-Pakistan World Cup match saw unprecedented engagement, drawing 173 million TV viewers in India and 225 million digital viewers. The rivalry between the two teams has consistently brought record audiences in global events.
India has not played in Pakistan since 2008. Last year, the BCCI’s decision to skip the Asia Cup in Pakistan led to a hybrid format, with later stages held in Sri Lanka. Pakistan subsequently visited India for the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they exited in the group stage before reaching the semi-finals.
