Champions Trophy 2024: India’s Participation Uncertain, Broadcast Rights Take Precedence
The Champions Trophy, scheduled for 2024 in Pakistan, faces uncertainty over India’s participation due to political tensions between the two nations. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has emphasized the importance of protecting broadcast rights, indicating that the tournament will proceed with or without India’s involvement.
ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould and Chair Richard Thompson acknowledged that alternative arrangements are being considered in case India declines to travel to Pakistan. They stressed that the Champions Trophy is a significant event for Pakistan, which has not hosted a major ICC tournament since 1996.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not sent a team to Pakistan since 2008 due to strained relations. Last year, the Asia Cup was shifted to a hybrid model with India’s matches played in Sri Lanka. Pakistan, however, participated fully in the 2023 World Cup in India.
The PCB remains committed to hosting a “world-class” event in Pakistan. The final decision on India’s participation rests with the Indian government. ECB officials believe that the ICC, led by former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, will play a crucial role in finding a solution.
Gould emphasized the financial implications of India’s absence, stating that broadcast rights would be compromised. He also acknowledged the security concerns that arise when India and Pakistan face each other. However, he expressed optimism that the two countries’ relations are currently amicable.
Thompson predicted that India’s participation would “go to the wire.” He believes that India and Pakistan will find a way to ensure India’s involvement. The PCB has submitted a draft schedule to the ICC, with India’s matches scheduled to be played in Lahore.
The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams divided into two groups of four. The competing teams include Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. The tournament is set to run from February 19 to March 9, 2024.