PCB warns of champions’ stubborn stance on trophy, report says ICC may move event to…

Trouble appears to be brewing for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) due to their stubborn stance on hosting the entire ICC Champions Trophy in the country next year. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan for the event due to security reasons. After India’s position became official, the PCB also reportedly threatened to withdraw from the tournament in protest against India’s position.

While discussions about next year’s Champions Cup are still in the preliminary stages, it has been reported that the ICC is already eyeing South Africa as a potential host for the tournament. If Pakistan does not agree to a hybrid model, the tournament could be held elsewhere.

“Unless the PCB decides to opt out of hosting the Champions Trophy, the current plan is to host India’s matches in the UAE and the final in Dubai,” PTI quoted a source as saying on Monday.

“The Indian Cricket Board has told the ICC that the hybrid model is only acceptable to them if the final is played in Dubai and not Pakistan,” the source added.

In light of the developments and demands from the BCCI, the ICC has also made a favorable offer to the PCB.

“The ICC has informed the PCB that if it decides to go ahead with the mega event on a hybrid model, it will receive full hosting fees and most of the matches,” the source said.

Report to Sports, thank you stated that the ICC has also advised the PCB that the entire tournament could be moved to South Africa if the board decides to move away from the hybrid model.

Despite the risks involved, PCB is, however, determined not to implement the hybrid model again. Discussions on the issue between the Pakistani board and its government are expected to determine the direction in which the fate of the tournament will proceed.

“As of now, there is no talk of hosting the Champions Trophy in a hybrid model system,” a PCB source told PTI.

“An email should be sent to the ICC notifying its legal department in which the Board would like clarification from the ICC regarding India’s decision,” the source added. “At the moment, the PCB is assessing the entire situation. No decision has been made about the next step. Yes, the PCB is in touch with the government for consultation and guidance if required.”