ICC responds to serious legal threat amid India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy standoff

The future of the Champions Trophy 2025 is uncertain. There has been no progress since the BCCI informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it would not send Indian cricket to designated host country Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Following the announcement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sought a written explanation from the ICC regarding the participation status of various teams. He also said a hybrid model – where some matches are played at neutral venues – was not acceptable.

Meanwhile, a report cricket pakistan claimed that the announcement of the Champions Trophy schedule has been halted due to the current impasse. India does not want to travel to Pakistan, but Pakistan does not want to play the match at a neutral venue.

Citing sources, the paper said the broadcaster and commercial partners were “adamant” about hosting the India-Pakistan match in the Champions Trophy schedule. The report also said that the broadcaster has hinted at legal action if the Champions Trophy match between India and Pakistan is not played.

India is reluctant to send a team across the border, citing security concerns, and the onus is on the ICC to help the Council establish a compromise. Pakistan is reportedly under pressure to soften its approach through back channels after PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi reiterated his refusal to accept a hybrid model.

According to multiple reports, some top cricket administrators at the ICC have approached the PCB and asked it to accept a hybrid model as a stubborn stance on the issue could have huge financial implications.

It’s no secret that Indian cricket remains an international revenue driver. If India does not take part in the ICC Champions Trophy, the tournament will become a loss-making venture. The ICC is also likely to announce the Champions Trophy schedule in the coming days.