PCB Requests Written Confirmation From BCCI On India's Absence In Pakistan For Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly requested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provide the International Cricket Council (ICC) with written proof if the Indian government denies permission for the team to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025.

According to a PTI report, a source close to the PCB mentioned that they want BCCI to document any refusal from the Indian government. This is particularly important if India cites security concerns as a reason for not travelling to Pakistan for next year's Champions Trophy.

Reports have surfaced suggesting that ICC might consider holding next year's Champions Trophy using a Hybrid Model. This would mean India's matches could be played in UAE instead of Pakistan, which was the originally scheduled host country.

The PCB wants this matter resolved quickly since the tournament is set for February-March. The provisional schedule indicates all of India's matches were planned to be held in Lahore.

"If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now," said a PCB source working closely with the organizing committee.

The same source added, "It is a fact that we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing."

BCCI's Position and Rumours

However, BCCI has yet to confirm whether they will travel to Pakistan for the tournament. There were rumours suggesting they would not travel under any circumstances, but these were dismissed by BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla last week.

Despite Shukla's denial of any official confirmation, discussions about India's potential refusal to travel have persisted. There are talks of UAE possibly hosting India's matches and knockout games if they qualify for semi-finals and finals.

ICC Conference and Financial Preparations

The ICC annual conference will take place in Colombo on July 19. Although there is no agenda item discussing a 'Hybrid Model' where India plays its games in UAE, additional funds have been earmarked by ICC in case it becomes necessary.

The BCCI maintains that playing cricket in Pakistan is entirely a government decision. During the 2023 ODI Asia Cup hosted by PCB, India played all its games in Sri Lanka based on a 'Hybrid Model'.

Future Plans and Financial Allocations

If sources within BCCI are correct, there seems little chance of India travelling to Pakistan. The ICC has allocated additional budget for any emergency plans knowing this possibility well.

"The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on," confirmed an insider source.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi remains confident about hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan. However, any final decision will be made by ICC, potentially during their upcoming meeting in Sri Lanka this week.

(With PTI inputs)