Clouds of uncertainty continue to hover over the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan with a fresh report claiming the International Cricket Council (ICC) is gearing up for the scenario where the tournament could be entirely shifted out from the country to a neutral venue. This comes after media reports that the ICC could be pondering to play the competition in a hybrid model with Dubai entering the picture as co-hosts alongside Pakistan.
According to Sports Tak, Champions Trophy looks increasingly likely to be played at a neutral venue amidst reports BCCI will not be sending its team across the border citing safety concerns. The ICC has also reportedly prepared three budgets as it continues to explore different options.
This comes a day after Cricket Pakistan quoted a PCB spokesperson as denying the possibility of Champions Trophy being held outside the country.
“There is absolutely no truth to the reports suggesting that the Champions Trophy final could be moved outside Pakistan,” the spokesperson was quoted as saying. “We are working diligently to ensure that all preparations for the tournament are on track, and we are confident that Pakistan will be able to host a memorable event.”
Indian men’s cricket team hasn’t traveled to Pakistan since July 2008 when they played the Asia Cup under MS Dhoni, finishing as the runners-up.
Champions Trophy is making its return after being last held in 2017 when Pakistan defeated India. PCB has already started upgrading facilities at the various venues scheduled to host matches during the marquee event.
As per the schedule, the tournament will be held from February 19 to March 9 with as many as eight teams taking part. Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi have been allotted the matches.
7 matches including the final will be held in Lahore while Rawalpindi has bagged five games including a semifinal. Karachi’s National Stadium will play host to the tournament opener and one semifinal.
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