ICC likely to move entire Champions Trophy 2025 tournament out of Pakistan: Reports

Pakistan cricket fans are in for bad news as the latest reports suggest that the entire Champions Trophy could be moved out. Sports Tak reported that the International Cricket Council could be looking at the move because it is unlikely that the Indian Government will permit its team to tour Pakistan. 

According to Sports Tak who were quoted as saying “The Champions Trophy hosting rights are with Pakistan but the ICC is still exploring options and has accordingly, prepared three budgets for three different models”. There were reports on Wednesday that the tournament could be held in Hybrid Model with Dubai likely to host the final. 

Sports Tak also added “The Indian government hasn’t cleared BCCI to travel to Pakistan. Chances are almost nil so the ICC is also working realistically on the last two options – Hybrid and moving it out of Pakistan entirely”

What does the future hold for Champions Trophy 2025?

With the tournament now facing fresh challenges, it is likely that Dubai could come out as a strong contender. UAE is currently hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup after Bangladesh’s political crisis forced the move. The 2021 T20 World Cup was also moved out of India due to the second wave of COVID-19 crisis. Sri Lanka is also a potential destination to host the event just like it had during Asia Cup 2023. 

Pakistan Cricket Board source had denied that the tournament was moving to Dubai while speaking to the media. “There is absolutely no truth to the reports suggesting that the Champions Trophy final could be moved outside Pakistan. We are working diligently to ensure that all preparations for the tournament are on track, and we are confident that Pakistan will be able to host a memorable event." Said the PCB source. 

Pakistan cricket chief Mohsin Naqvi had earlier shown faith that India will tour for the massive event next year. The PCB chief had said, “The Indian team should come. I don't see them cancelling or postponing coming here, and we are confident we will host all the teams in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan,". if India had toured Pakistan this would have been their maiden visit since 2008. None of the current Indian members except for Rohit Sharma has toured across the border.