The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is grappling with a complex situation over its participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. With diplomatic tensions escalating between PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the future of the tournament remains uncertain. Here’s the latest on the issue.
Rashid Latif Calls for PCB to Act First
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made bold remarks, urging the PCB to boycott the Champions Trophy before the BCCI takes any drastic measures.
“Pakistan should boycott the Champions Trophy now. Before the BCCI takes this step, PCB should take it. Champions Trophy shouldn’t happen anymore,” Latif emphasized during an event.
Latif expressed frustration over Pakistan’s repeated role as a “scapegoat” in both political and cricket-related disputes, stating that this is the time for PCB to take a firm stand.
Rashid Latif said “Pakistan should boycott the Champions Trophy now. Before BCCI takes this step, PCB should take it. Champions Trophy shouldn’t happen anymore” 🇵🇰🇮🇳🤯
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) December 10, 2024
pic.twitter.com/xZZGo1X3xX
Financial Implications of a PCB Withdrawal
The financial stakes for the ICC and PCB are significant. If Pakistan pulls out of the Champions Trophy, the ICC faces a potential loss of Rs 635 crore. Comparatively, an Indian withdrawal would lead to a massive Rs 5,720 crore loss due to media rights and broadcasting deals.
| Scenario | Potential ICC Loss |
|---|---|
| India Withdraws | Rs 5,720 crore |
| Pakistan Withdraws | Rs 635 crore |
ICC’s Hybrid Model Proposal
To address security concerns, the ICC recently agreed “in principle” to a hybrid model for the tournament. Under this arrangement:
- India’s matches will be hosted in Dubai.
- Pakistan retains its hosting rights for the rest of the games.
However, the PCB remains dissatisfied, particularly since semifinals and finals of future ICC events in India may proceed as planned—even if Pakistan qualifies.
Read Also:- Champions Trophy 2025 PCB Open to Hybrid Model
PCB Board Faces Legal Risks and Isolation
The PCB risks significant consequences if it decides to withdraw:
- Lawsuits: The ICC could sue PCB for breaching the Member Participation Agreement (MPA) signed by all participating nations.
- Revenue Loss: PCB might lose its share of ICC revenues.
- Alienation: Other cricket boards are not fully backing PCB’s stance, leaving them isolated in negotiations.
India vs. Pakistan Fixture: A Financial Crux
A Pakistan-India match is critical for ICC’s broadcasting deals. Broadcasters have calculated their bids based on the commercial value of this high-profile rivalry. Any disruption to this fixture could destabilize ICC’s revenue structure.
PCB’s Dilemma: To Boycott or Not?
While Latif’s call-to-action urges immediate withdrawal, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi must weigh the risks carefully. The board faces pressure to accept the hybrid model, but doing so might weaken their stance in future ICC events.
The fate of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy rests on sensitive negotiations between PCB, BCCI, and ICC. While the hybrid model offers a temporary resolution, PCB must navigate legal risks, financial losses, and diplomatic hurdles to safeguard its interests and reputation in international cricket.
