The uncertainty surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues with a high likelihood of further delays in the announcement of the schedule for the mega-event, Pakistani media reports indicated Wednesday.
As they say, money talks, which is why the BCCI wields disproportionate power in global cricket. It is again money that has seen broadcasters and commercial partners refusing to accept a schedule that does not feature a Pakistan-India match — which brings significant eyes and therefore generates valuable revenue.
Furthermore, said ICC partners have reportedly also warned of legal action if the tournament does not include a contest between the arch-rivals.
It is pertinent to mention that in recent years, the ICC has made sure that India play Pakistan at least once in each of its global cricketing events, ensuring a major chunk of revenue from this game.
The match between the arch-rivals at the 2023 World Cup drew unprecedented interest, with 173 million viewers on Indian TV and 225 million digital viewers.
The ICC, which secured $3.2 billion from broadcast rights for the 2024-2027 cycle and anticipates $1 billion more in other revenue, relies heavily on marquee events featuring Pakistan and India.
The other critical element in the unravelling mess is the Pakistan Cricket Board’s staying firm on its stance against a hybrid model for the tournament.
In a related development, Pakistani media further reports that the ICC has officially demanded a written explanation from the BCCI over its refusal after the PCB requested the ICC to provide a copy of India’s written response regarding the decision against attending the mega-event.
The Indian board had previously verbally communicated its decision against its participation to the ICC.
