The International Cricket Council (ICC) faces a daunting challenge following the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) direct response to India’s refusal to cross the border for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Sources close to the matter reveal that the PCB has formally pressed the ICC for a series of clarifications, forcing the governing body to confront a complicated diplomatic scenario with limited options.
According to sources, the PCB has sent a letter to the ICC, raising critical questions. Chief among these inquiries was when the BCCI informed the ICC about its decision to skip the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
The PCB is also pressing the ICC to confirm whether this decision was communicated in writing and, if so, to provide a copy for Pakistan’s review. Furthermore, the PCB has asked how the ICC responded to the BCCI’s refusal.
Sources suggest that, based on the ICC’s replies, the PCB is prepared to seek legal advice and consult the Pakistani government for guidance on the next steps. If India indeed opts out, and the ICC supports this move, the PCB has made it clear: they will refuse to participate in any matches against India in all future tournaments.
The ICC is said to be considering three options for the Champions Trophy which will be presented to PCB soon. A hybrid model will allow matches in two countries (already rejected by the PCB), relocating the tournament entirely (a difficult and unprecedented move), or finding a compromise that satisfies both sides.
With Pakistan holding firm, the ICC is under mounting pressure to resolve the standoff – balancing diplomatic sensitivities with the need to maintain the tournament’s integrity and financial viability as Pakistan vs India matches are guaranteed to generate massive revenues.
With all eyes on ICC, the world awaits its decision together.