Champions Trophy 2025: ICC Hints At Venue Shift For India's Matches

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has sanctioned a budget of USD 65 million for the Champions Trophy 2025, hinting that India might not travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

According to Cricbuzz, the ICC approved this budget during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo. The budget takes into account potential increased costs if India decides against travelling to Pakistan. However, the ICC did not specify alternative venues outside Pakistan.

The Chief Executives Committee (CEC) note states, "PCB has signed Host Agreement and has worked with management to draft an event budget which is submitted F&CA for approval. Management has also approved an estimate of the increase in the cost of staging the event if it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan."

In March 2024, a planning meeting and inspection of proposed match venues took place in Pakistan. Significant renovation work is ongoing at all three earmarked venues: Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. The CEC note further mentions that PCB is refurbishing these centres.

Draft Schedule and Key Matches

The ICC has shared a draft schedule with stakeholders, including broadcasters and participating teams. All India matches are allocated to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match is set for Saturday, March 1.

As per the draft, India will play Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on February 23 in Group A matches. The tournament will commence with Pakistan facing New Zealand on February 19 at Karachi's National Stadium. Rawalpindi is also shortlisted as one of the three venues for the Champions Trophy 2025.

Although the draft schedule is out, there has been no official statement yet. The ICC is preparing for various scenarios as Pakistan gets ready to host its first global cricket event since 1996.