'It is now up to...': PCB on India's participation in Champions Trophy 2025
The PCB is eagerly awaiting the ICC's efforts to secure the participation of the BCCI in this prestigious tournament.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has delegated the responsibility to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to persuade the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send its team to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to take place in the first quarter of next year. As per a PCB source, although the budget for the Champions Trophy was approved during the recent ICC meetings in Colombo, the schedule and format were not discussed at all. The PCB is eagerly awaiting the ICC's efforts to secure the participation of the BCCI in this prestigious tournament.
"The PCB now has done what was required of it as hosts of the Champions Trophy. It has submitted the draft schedule and format for the event and also submitted budget for the event,” a PCB insider said.
"It is now up to the ICC how soon they circulate, discuss and finalise the schedule of the Champions Trophy. The PCB for its part in the draft schedule has suggested hosting all of India's games in Lahore including a semi-final (if India qualifies) and final," he said.
Another source has confirmed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already submitted all necessary details in its expression of interest document to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to host the Champions Trophy.
"The PCB for its part has given in writing to the ICC about the tax modalities, venue selections and clearance from its government for the Indian team to be hosted in Pakistan for the mega event,” he added.
The PCB initially expressed interest in hosting the event in 2021 under the leadership of Ehsan Mani as Chairman. The ICC awarded hosting rights in 2022, and later, under the chairmanship of Ramiz Raja, the PCB submitted final documentation for the host agreement.
Sources revealed that PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi did not have any formal meetings with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah or other BCCI officials during ICC meetings. However, exchanges between Naqvi and Shah were described as cordial.
The PCB has now entrusted the ICC to finalize and announce the tournament schedule. Additionally, confirmation is awaited from the BCCI regarding the Indian team's travel to Pakistan.