According to a senior ICC Board member, who spoke to PTI on Wednesday, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set up a high-profile Champions Trophy match between Pakistan and India in Lahore on March 1, 2025. However, BCCI is yet to give its nod for the proposed schedule.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled from February 19 to March 9 with a reserve day on March 10.
It is understood that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi who visited Barbados as an invitee for T20 World cup final has handed over 15-match schedule. India’s matches have all been put in Lahore because of security and logistical reasons.
“The board has given the draft of the ICC Champions Trophy 15 games. Seven games are assigned to Lahore, three in Karachi and five in Rawalpindi,” an ICC Board member said.
“The opening match will take place at Karachi followed by two semifinals at Karachi and Rawalpindi then final game held at Lahore where as All India matches (semi-final also if team qualifies) are scheduled at Lahore,” added the source.
Group A includes India’s bitter rival Pakistan besides Bangladesh and New Zealand; Group B has Australia, South Africa along with England among other cricketing powerhouses as well as rise of Afghanistan side.
During his visit to Islamabad recently, Chris Tetley had a meeting with Mohsin Naqvi who was the ICC head of events. This gathering occurred after complete inspection of sites and other arrangements by the ICC’s security squad.
Pakistan most recent hosting came during Asia Cup 2023 which was played under unique ‘Hybrid Model’ since Indian government refused their players access into Pakistan through borders. Consequently, while rest of tournament took place in Pakistan; India played their matches Sri Lanka.
“Except for BCCI all other board chiefs participating countries (of ICC Champions Trophy) have guaranteed full support but BCCI would consult its government before updating ICC,” said the source.
As an organization, it cannot force any cricket board to go against its government’s directives. The BCCI on the other hand is faced with a complicated choice and thus, the cricketing world waits for its final position on this matter.
