Tag: ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday adjourned the board meeting without a decision regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, ARY News reported, citing sources.

The board meeting was called after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament, scheduled in the February-March window next year.

According to sources, the meeting, comprising representatives from the 12 Full Member countries, three representatives from Associates, and an independent director alongside the ICC chairman and CEO, continued for around 15 minutes where Pakistan reiterated its stance against a hybrid model.

Meanwhile, sources said that ICC was considering various options to come up with a solution to the issues regarding Champions Trophy 2025 following India’s refusal to visit Pakistan.

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In this regard, the apex cricketing body is likely to convene another meeting within the next 48 hours to decide on the matter.

It is pertinent to note here that the BCCI has suggested a hybrid model instead of travelling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI proposed that India’s matches be held in Dubai.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has categorically rejected such a proposal and insists that it will hold the entirety of the tournament on its soil. A day earlier, reports said that the PCB wrote to the International Cricket Council ahead of the scheduled board meeting.

Sources said that the PCB made it clear that the hybrid model, which would involve holding some matches in a neutral venue, was not acceptable for the Champions Trophy 2025.

READ: Woakes, Carse put England in touching distance of victory in first New Zealand Test

Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has voiced his strong support for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as it stands firm on its decision to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 entirely within Pakistan despite India’s demand for adopting a hybrid model.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is slated to take place in the February-March window of 2025, but India’s participation remains shrouded in uncertainty.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on November 10 communicated to the PCB that the Indian government is currently unwilling to permit their cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

In response, the PCB took proactive measures by sending a formal letter to the ICC, reflecting the concerns of the Pakistani government regarding India’s withdrawal.

Furthermore, the PCB has decisively rejected the notion of a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025. They reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to host the entire tournament within Pakistan as planned.

The PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday once again reiterated the cricket board’s stance against the hybrid model.

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“We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know,” Naqvi stated.

Shahid Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account and backed Naqvi’s stance in hosting the tournament completely in Pakistan. Meanwhile, he also urged the ICC to assert its authority against India.

“By intertwining politics with sports, the BCCI has placed international cricket in a precarious position,” Afridi posted.

“Fully support the PCB’s stance against the hybrid model – especially since Pakistan (despite security concerns) has toured India five times, including a bilateral white-ball series, post-26/11. It’s time for the ICC and its Board of Directors to uphold fairness and assert their authority.”

For the unversed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled a crucial board meeting for November 29.

The primary agenda will be to explore the future of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is slated to take place in Pakistan during the February-March window next year.

The board members will weigh various options, including the possibility of implementing a hybrid model, relocating the event entirely to a neutral venue, or postponing the tournament.

READ: It’s unacceptable that Pakistan visit India but they don’t: Mohsin Naqvi

The chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, expressed strong dissatisfaction on Thursday regarding India’s refusal to send its cricket team for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

During a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Naqvi emphasised the PCB’s commitment to putting Pakistan cricket first.

“Our stance is very clear,” he declared. “I promise we’ll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I’m constantly in touch with the ICC chairman, and my team is talking to them constantly.”

“We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know,” Mohsin Naqvi added.

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“Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved. But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it’s not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don’t come here.”

For the unversed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled a crucial board meeting for November 29.

The primary agenda will be to explore the future of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is slated to take place in Pakistan during the February-March window next year.

The board members will weigh various options, including the possibility of implementing a hybrid model, relocating the event entirely to a neutral venue, or postponing the tournament.

READ: Kamran Ghulam’s maiden ODI ton helps Pakistan to post 303-6 against Zimbabwe

The global trophy tour of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 came to an end in Pakistan on Monday. The coveted silverware is set to be transported to Afghanistan as part of the trophy tour.

Throughout its time in Pakistan, the trophy embarked on an adventurous path, traversing a variety of picturesque cities. It began its journey in the capital, Islamabad, before making its way to the scenic hills of Murree and Nathia Gali.

The trophy continued its travels to Abbottabad, Khanpur Dam, Taxila and Karachi. After a whirlwind tour, it has now returned to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Headquarters in Lahore, marking the conclusion of its leg in Pakistan.

The next stop for the trophy will be Afghanistan, where it will be on display from November 26 to 28. Following its time in Afghanistan, the Champions Trophy will head to Bangladesh, set to captivate fans from December 10 to 13.

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From there, the trophy will touch down in South Africa, continuing its international celebration from December 15 to 22.

The Champions Trophy will then venture to Australia, enthralling cricket enthusiasts from December 25 to January 5, before heading to New Zealand from January 6 to 11.

The journey will continue with a stop in England from January 12 to 14, where fans will have a chance to engage with the trophy.

The grand finale of this exciting global trophy tour of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place in India, where the trophy will be showcased from January 15 to 26.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 16 – 25 November – Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India
• 27 January – event start – Pakistan

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Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the country to their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, attended the trophy tour event at a private college in Karachi on Friday.

Sarfaraz received a hero’s welcome from students and faculty alike upon his arrival.

The wicket-keeper, while talking with students, reminisced about the unforgettable moments from their victorious campaign.

“All our players will remember every single moment from that event. It was a historic achievement for us,” he shared.

He posed proudly with the gleaming Champions Trophy, surrounded by the eager students, who were thrilled to be part of the occasion.

Originally, Sarfaraz Ahmed was scheduled to join the Champions Trophy tour at the iconic Mohatta Palace, however, due to permission issues, the photo shoot was relocated to the college.

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The ongoing Champions Trophy tour commenced in Karachi on November 20, captivating the city. On the inaugural day, the trophy was showcased at the vibrant Burns Road food street, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere of celebration.

The following day, the silverware was showcased at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, located in the National Bank Cricket Arena.

The trophy was later taken to the Edhi Centre followed by a picturesque photoshoot at Seaview, capturing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

It’s worth noting that the trophy’s tour of Karachi is set to continue until November 25. The much-anticipated journey of the prestigious silverware began with a grand launch at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on November 17.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India

READ: PCB appoints Azhar Ali as Head of Youth Development

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the country to their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, is set to make a special appearance later today at the iconic Mohatta Palace in Karachi as part of the prestigious trophy tour.

The sources have confirmed that Sarfaraz has received an exclusive invitation for a photoshoot at Mohatta Palace alongside the coveted Champions Trophy following the Friday prayers.

While fans will be unable to interact directly with the cricketing icon during this exclusive event, it is a celebration of Sarfaraz’s monumental contributions to the sport and the nation’s cricketing legacy.

Pakistan, under the inspired leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed, clinched the Champions Trophy in 2017, securing a historic 180-run victory over their arch-rivals India in the final.

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The ongoing Champions Trophy tour commenced in Karachi on November 20, captivating the city. On the inaugural day, the trophy was showcased at the vibrant Burns Road food street, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere of celebration.

The following day, the silverware was showcased at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, located in the National Bank Cricket Arena.

The trophy was later taken to the Edhi Centre followed by a picturesque photoshoot at Seaview, capturing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

It’s worth noting that the trophy’s tour of Karachi is set to continue until November 25. The much-anticipated journey of the prestigious silverware began with a grand launch at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on November 17.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India

READ: Pakistan Shaheens and Sri Lanka A settle for a draw

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced the schedule of the Global Trophy Tour for the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be played in Pakistan.

The highly anticipated trophy tour kicked off today in the vibrant city of Islamabad. Over the coming weeks, the tour will journey through eight participating nations, giving cricket enthusiasts an unforgettable chance to engage with the celebrated trophy.

Fans will have the opportunity to take photos, share their passion for the game, and experience the thrill of being close to the coveted trophy.

Fans in Islamabad can witness the trophy on display at famous landmarks such as Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument where it will be accompanied by Pakistan cricket icon Shoaib Akhtar.

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“A series of physical and digital engagements traversing iconic destinations, sporting events, and key battles in the international cricket calendar form the Trophy Tour schedule,” the ICC stated in its press release.

“Fans will be treated to a content series titled ‘Champion on Tour’ that will document the Trophy Tour’s journey around the world through the unique lens of food, music, and cricket.”

The ICC’s Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya expressed his pleasure at the launch of the Trophy Tour for the Champions Trophy 2025.

“We are delighted to launch the Trophy Tour with DP World ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, where another action-packed programme of activity is available to fans across the world,” said Dahiya.

“The silverware, which will be showcased across all participating nations, will allow the sport’s passionate fanbase to enjoy the unforgettable experience of being up close with the iconic trophy.”

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 16 November – Islamabad, Pakistan
• 17 November – Taxila and Khanpur, Pakistan
• 18 November – Abbottabad, Pakistan
• 19 November- Murree, Pakistan
• 20 November- Nathia Gali, Pakistan
• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India
• 27 January – event start – Pakistan

READ: Champions Trophy: BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla reiterates India’s stance on visiting Pakistan

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tour schedule as the trophy arrived in Islamabad on Thursday.

The cricket board announced the schedule on their official social media accounts with the trophy tour commencing on November 16 in the capital city.

“Get ready, Pakistan,” the PCB posted. “The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad on 16 November, also visiting scenic travel destinations like Skardu, Murree, Hunza and Muzaffarabad.”

“Catch a glimpse of the trophy which Sarfaraz Ahmed lifted in 2017 at The Oval, from 16-24 November.”

The announcement of the trophy tour came amid uncertainty regarding the schedule of the Champions Trophy 2025 after the Indian government refused to send its team to Pakistan for the event.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) was set to release the schedule earlier this week, however, the ambiguity regarding India’s travel plans to Pakistan resulted in a delay in the announcement of the schedule.

It is to be noted here that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC on November 9 that India would not travel to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

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The cricket board sent a letter to the ICC earlier this week following directives from the country’s government to express its concerns. The PCB conveyed that the Pakistani government is determined to host the entire tournament.

Sources reported that the PCB has sought official clarification and concrete reasons for India’s refusal to tour Pakistan in a letter.

India has not travelled to Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008 due to the long-standing political tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

In contrast, Pakistan has made four trips to India in the last 16 years. Their most recent visit was last year for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

READ: Kane Williamson returns to New Zealand squad for England Test series

Broadcasters have urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to promptly release the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, as reported by ARY News on Thursday.

The schedule was originally set to be released earlier this week; however, the announcement was delayed after the government of India refused to send its team to Pakistan for the event.

The broadcasting rights, awarded to broadcasters until 2027 for a record $3 billion, hinge largely on the popularity of marquee matches, particularly between Pakistan and India, which consistently draw the highest viewership.

Broadcasters earn the highest revenue from Pakistan-India games, as these matches attract massive audiences and generate significant advertising revenue.

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The early release of the schedule would aid broadcasters in maximizing their promotional and commercial planning for these high-stakes events.

On November 9, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India would not travel to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the BCCI officially informed the ICC that the Indian government advised against sending the team to Pakistan.

It must be noted India has not travelled to Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008 due to the long-standing political tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

In contrast, Pakistan has made four trips to India in the last 16 years. Their most recent visit was last year for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

READ: South Africa suffer major blow ahead of series against Pakistan

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi delivered a subtle message to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), urging them to “put differences aside” for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

This appeal came in the wake of reports of BCCI declining to send their team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February- March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

Additionally, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

The announcement of India’s refusal sparked a significant backlash among several former cricketers, who expressed their disappointment and frustration. Among them, Shahid Afridi has emerged as the latest voice to comment on the situation.

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Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to urge all cricketing nations to come together and visit Pakistan for the tournament. He referenced the Olympics as an example, where many countries participated together despite their historical and political issues.

“Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us,” Afridi posted.

“If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for cricket – and for the Champions Trophy?”

He subtly criticized the BCCI and urged them not to let egos interfere with sports.

“As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit,” he added.

“I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field.”

READ: Mohammad Amir calls to ‘keep India out’ of Champions Trophy 2025