Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule: ICC Board To Decide On Venue Announcement Today

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is scheduled to convene a board meeting on Friday, December 5, to address the escalating dispute between India and Pakistan over the 2025 Champions Trophy.

This meeting marks Jay Shah's inaugural session as the newly elected ICC chairman and will primarily focus on resolving key issues surrounding the tournament's schedule, hosting arrangements, and venues.

While Pakistan has been designated as the host for the Champions Trophy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its refusal to travel to Pakistan, citing security concerns as the primary reason. In response, Pakistan rejected India's proposed hybrid model, which has led to discussions about alternative arrangements.

Jay Shah will chair the meeting, which is expected to finalise the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule. However, it remains uncertain whether BCCI will be represented at the meeting.

Pakistan, having initially rejected the hybrid model, later proposed a "Partnership or Fusion Formula," suggesting that the model be used for all future ICC events in India until 2031. This would include neutral venues for matches between India and Pakistan. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi underscored the importance of fairness, stating, "It is no longer acceptable to have a lopsided agreement. We can't keep traveling to India while they refuse to come to Pakistan."

During the December 5 meeting, the ICC board is anticipated to finalize the tournament schedule while reviewing the new model suggested by the PCB. A vote among board members will determine the outcome, though both the BCCI and PCB will require government approval for any decision.

It seems unlikely that the Champions Trophy 2025 will take place without India, given the BCCI's significant financial influence. This could mean Pakistan may have to accept a hybrid model, where only India's matches are held at neutral venues, potentially securing a favorable financial agreement for Pakistan.

The 2025 Champions Trophy is slated to occur in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, with matches planned in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. If the hybrid model is adopted, India's games may be hosted in Dubai, UAE.