The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been hit hard by the International Cricket Council (ICC) decision, potentially losing the opportunity to host the Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup. The ICC had initially planned to hold the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in 2025, but now, if India refuses to travel to Pakistan, the tournament may be relocated to another country.
In the unfortunate event that India declines to participate in Pakistan, the ICC is considering alternative host countries. However, in such a scenario, Pakistan would receive compensation for the lost opportunity.
Speculations suggest that the United States of America might replace Pakistan as the host for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Furthermore, there could also be a change in the hosting of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024, with England emerging as a strong contender.
England Leading the Race for T20 World Cup 2024 Hosting
As per reports from News-18, discussions regarding the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 are currently in the preliminary stages. Engagements are underway with cricket boards of various nations, the ICC, and relevant stakeholders. Additionally, talks with broadcasters for the upcoming tournaments are expected to commence soon. Media outlets claim that England is currently the front-runner to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 if the West Indies or America fail to secure the tournament.
Reasons Behind the Potential Snatching of ICC Champions Trophy Hosting from Pakistan
- BCCI’s Security Concerns: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unequivocally stated that the Indian team will not tour Pakistan due to security reasons.
- Asia Cup 2023 Contention: The Indian team has also decided against traveling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 and has proposed hosting the event at a neutral venue.
- Financial Considerations: India contributes significant revenue to the ICC, making it cautious about taking any risks that could jeopardize these financial gains.
- Tournament Size: The Champions Trophy holds lesser significance compared to the ICC T20 World Cup, prompting the ICC to consider organizing it in the West Indies or America.
Implications for Broadcasters in the Event of Relocation
The ICC is taking swift measures to mitigate any potential financial losses. In case the tournament cannot be held in the West Indies or America, the ICC is exploring other alternatives and intends to hold discussions with broadcasters soon. However, since the Champions Trophy is a smaller tournament compared to the ICC T20 World Cup, the impact on broadcasters is expected to be minimal.
