The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing for the possibility that India may decline to participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year. During its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo, the ICC approved a budget of approximately $65 million to cover expenses related to hosting matches outside Pakistan if necessary.
The ICC has not officially addressed India’s potential absence, but a contingency plan has been put in place. The Chief Executives Committee (CEC) has approved a budget that includes an estimate of the increased costs associated with moving matches outside Pakistan.
The ICC has not yet identified alternative venues, but Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi are the designated venues in Pakistan. The PCB has reportedly undertaken significant renovation work at these venues.
The budget allocation includes $35 million for the competition itself, $20 million for participation and prize money, and $10 million for television production costs. The ICC has circulated a tentative schedule to broadcasters and participating teams, with India’s matches scheduled to take place in Lahore, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan encounter on March 1.
The tournament will feature two groups, with India and Pakistan joined by Bangladesh and New Zealand in Group A. Group B comprises Australia, England, Afghanistan, and South Africa. India’s other matches are scheduled against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on February 23.
The ICC has allocated a week-long support period from February 12th to 18th for teams to participate in practice matches and media events. March 10th has been designated as a reserve day for the final match.
The ICC will send a team to Pakistan next month to inspect the venues. The final decision on whether to move matches outside Pakistan will depend on the Indian team’s decision and the Government of India’s stance.
