Jay Shah Moves to Resolve Champions Trophy 2025 Deadlock Amid India-Pakistan Hosting Dispute

December 4, 2024: New ICC chairman Jay Shah faces an immediate challenge following his appointment on December 1: resolving the deadlock over the hosting venue for the Champions Trophy 2025. The ongoing dispute between the BCCI and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains unresolved, with India refusing to travel to Pakistan, the designated host nation, citing security concerns. Meanwhile, the PCB has resisted proposals for a hybrid hosting model.

Jay Shah, formerly BCCI secretary, outlined his priorities upon taking over the ICC role, including leveraging cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and advancing the women’s game. However, he did not address the Champions Trophy issue during his initial remarks.

A recent Cricbuzz report revealed that Shah has called for a virtual ICC Board meeting on December 5, although no specific agenda has been shared. It remains uncertain whether the Champions Trophy will be discussed during this meeting.

Earlier, PTI reported that the ICC has pressured Pakistan to accept the hybrid hosting model or risk being excluded from the tournament entirely. The model proposes holding India’s share of matches in the UAE, allowing both nations to participate. Despite Pakistan’s opposition, ICC board members reportedly view the hybrid model as the most viable solution.

The ICC’s executive board held an emergency meeting on November 29 to finalise the event schedule, but it ended inconclusively due to Pakistan’s rejection of the proposal. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi was urged to reconsider, with ICC insiders emphasising the financial importance of India’s participation.

“Broadcasters will not invest in an ICC event that excludes India, and Pakistan is aware of this reality,” an ICC Board source told PTI anonymously. The source added that if the PCB remains inflexible, the ICC might relocate the entire tournament to a neutral venue, such as the UAE, potentially without Pakistan’s involvement.

As the December 5 meeting approaches, the ICC must navigate these complexities to ensure the success of the Champions Trophy 2025, while balancing the interests of all stakeholders.

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