ICC champions trophy: PCB seeks clarification on India's refusal to travel

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought clarification from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ODI Champions Trophy. This response comes after receiving a letter from the ICC about India's decision.

In a recent statement, a PCB spokesperson confirmed, "The PCB has responded to last week’s ICC letter seeking clarifications for BCCI’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025."

The BCCI has cited security concerns as the primary reason for their decision. However, the PCB is pressing for more detailed explanations to better contest the matter. While the ICC and BCCI have not made public comments, it is widely believed that the BCCI's stance is unlikely to change. To remain as hosts of the tournament, the PCB might consider a hybrid model, where India would play its matches at a neutral venue, likely the UAE, while the rest of the matches would take place in Pakistan.

There have been rumors in Pakistani media suggesting that the PCB might take a firm stance and withdraw from the tournament altogether. However, within BCCI circles, this is perceived as mere public posturing. If the PCB adopts a hardline approach, one of the contingency plans the ICC is considering includes moving the entire tournament out of Pakistan.

Diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan have resulted in the Indian men's cricket team not traveling to Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup.

In related news, the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) is waiting for clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs to participate in the T20 World Cup for the Blind, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from November 22. The Indian squad was announced after receiving a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Union Sports Ministry on November 4.