The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has entrusted the International Cricket Council (ICC) with the task of persuading the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, scheduled for early 2024. The ICC recently approved the event’s budget during meetings in Colombo, but the schedule and format remain undecided.
The PCB has submitted a draft schedule and format for the tournament, along with a budget, to the ICC. The board has proposed hosting all of India’s matches in Lahore, including a potential semi-final and the final. The PCB has also provided the ICC with details on tax modalities, venue selections, and government clearance for the Indian team to visit Pakistan.
The PCB initially expressed interest in hosting the Champions Trophy in 2021, and the ICC awarded hosting rights in 2022. The final documentation for the host agreement was submitted during Ramiz Raja’s tenure as PCB Chairman.
Although PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi did not have formal meetings with BCCI secretary Jay Shah or other BCCI officials at the ICC meetings, interactions were described as cordial. The PCB has now delegated the responsibility of finalizing and announcing the tournament schedule to the ICC.
The ICC must also obtain confirmation from the BCCI regarding the Indian team’s travel to Pakistan. The BCCI has historically maintained that playing cricket in Pakistan is a decision made by the Indian government. During the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, India played its games in Sri Lanka based on a ‘Hybrid Model.’
The PCB has fulfilled its obligations as hosts by submitting the draft schedule and budget, as well as providing detailed documentation to the ICC. The ICC now has the responsibility to finalize the event logistics and secure India’s participation.
