Image Credit BCCI
ICC Cancels Champions Trophy Event Amid India’s Reluctance to Travel to Pakistan
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has encountered yet another setback as the International Cricket Council (ICC) cancelled a pre-tournament event that was initially scheduled for November 11 to mark 100 days until the tournament’s start.
The decision follows ongoing uncertainty over whether India will participate in matches hosted in Pakistan, a situation that has thrown the tournament planning into disarray.
India’s Stance on Playing in Pakistan
According to a report from Cricbuzz, the cancellation is tied to unresolved scheduling issues and India’s reluctance to play on Pakistani soil. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has advocated for India’s matches to be held at a neutral venue, likely in the UAE, citing security concerns. This stance has complicated ICC’s efforts to finalize the tournament schedule, leading to uncertainty about the event’s organization and logistics.
Smog Cited as Reason for Postponement
An ICC official reportedly informed Cricbuzz that poor air quality and severe smog in Lahore, where the event was to take place, contributed to the decision to cancel. The ICC attempted to downplay concerns, with an insider noting, “It was only a trophy tour flag-off and branding launch. The event is still in the works but may be rescheduled due to Lahore’s current outdoor activity limitations.”
Hybrid Model Considered to Address Scheduling Conflicts
India’s reported preference for a hybrid model, allowing them to play in the UAE, presents additional challenges for tournament logistics, especially with regards to travel for other teams. Originally, the ICC had slated India to play its group-stage matches in Lahore, but India’s resistance makes this increasingly unlikely. Organizers are now exploring alternatives, which may involve complicated arrangements for semifinals and finals if India advances and maintains its stance on avoiding Pakistan.
As Pakistan embarks on a white-ball series in Australia to prepare for its Champions Trophy hosting, the unresolved status of India’s participation looms large over the event, marking Pakistan’s first opportunity to host a major ICC tournament in nearly three decades.
