The Pakistan Cricket Board (Circuit board) recently signed a formal agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, the PCB is considering hosting some matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Although reports suggest the event may be moved out of Pakistan due to security concerns, the signing ceremony took place in Dubai on Friday, December 15. PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf and ICC General Counsel Jonathan Hall were both present at the signing.
It is highly unlikely that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will send the Indian team to Pakistan and a decision is expected to be taken in due course. It is noteworthy that the Indian team did not visit Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, which was played in a hybrid model.
United Arab Emirates to be considered for hosting Champions Trophy games – report
Zaka Ashraf recently held talks with Khalid Al Zarooni, deputy chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board. Although the Champions Trophy was not specifically addressed at their meeting, the UAE has shown unwavering cooperation with Pakistan.
According to a report by Cricketpakistan.com, sources suggest that if India decides not to send their team, there is a possibility of moving some Champions Trophy matches to the UAE. However, such a move would require the ICC to bear additional costs and adjustments to the tournament format could be necessary.
Pakistan insists that if a country cites security concerns for not sending a team, the ICC should avoid unilateral decisions and conduct a thorough assessment involving an independent security body. The ICC has agreed to comply with the PCB’s demand.
The subcontinent nation was announced as the host of the 2025 Champions Trophy on November 16, 2021. The prestigious tournament format features two groups of four teams each, with the top two teams in each group advancing to the semi-finals.
Press release from PCB on Champions Trophy 2025
The PCB announced its proactive preparations for the Champions Trophy in a press release. The board has formally requested the government to provide foolproof security to the visiting international teams to ensure the successful hosting of the tournament.
“The PCB in its capacity has already advised the government to provide foolproof security to visiting international teams for the Champions Trophy. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar in a recent meeting with the Chairman of the PCB Management Committee assured cooperation of security agencies in the successful hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.”
Pakistan will take part in the Champions Trophy as defending champions
Pakistan is considered one of the favorites for the upcoming marquee tournament after winning the title in the 2017 season. Under the leadership of Sarfraz Ahmed, Pakistan defeated the Indian team in the summit clash and secured their first ever Champions Trophy at The Oval in England.
The Men in Green had a slow start to the tournament but were able to defeat the likes of Sri Lanka, South Africa and England. Fakhar Zaman’s century played a crucial role in the final. Mohammad Amir and Hasan Ali took three wickets each to dismiss India for 158.
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