PCB exploring options to pull out of Champions Trophy

Champions Trophy in Pakistan, India and Pakistan
Champions Trophy in Pakistan, India and Pakistan (PC: ICC/X)

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely to approach the ICC Dispute Resolution Committee and is also considering withdrawing from the ICC Champions Trophy following the BCCI informing the global cricket body that they will not play their matches in Pakistan, according to sources familiar with the matter. ICC has formally conveyed the BCCI’s stance to the PCB as well.

The BCCI has not obtained government clearance to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, which is scheduled for February 2025.

While there has been discussion about adopting a hybrid model where India’s matches could be held in Dubai, the PCB is expressing significant frustration over India’s unwillingness to travel to Pakistan. PCB sources indicate that they are contemplating legal avenues due to the potential financial impact. All three venues, Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi have been undergoing substantial infrastructural improvements at a cost of millions to the PCB.

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi convened a meeting with the legal team on Sunday to explore various options in response to these recent developments. An ICC delegation was expected to visit Pakistan to unveil the tournament schedule in Lahore, but as things stand, the event has been cancelled.

(This is a developing story.)

 

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