ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin in Pakistan next year, but there is still uncertainty regarding Team India's participation which has led to a standoff between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The official schedule for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was expected to be released earlier this week, as reported by Pakistan's The Nation. However, delays have occurred due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding India's participation and whether Hybrid Model will be used or not. As a result, broadcasters are now reportedly pressuring the ICC to finalize and release the tournament schedule.
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India's participation in 2025 Champions Trophy is essential for commercial reasons, and it remains uncertain whether ICC and PCB will meet India's terms and conditions. The release of the tournament schedule is key for broadcasters, as it will enable them to plan and execute their promotional and marketing strategies.
The broadcasters, who have reportedly secured a $3 billion deal for the rights to all ICC events until 2027, are facing tension. The absence of an India vs Pakistan match, which generates highest viewership, could pose a big challenge for them.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains firm in its position against using the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, assuring the ICC that security is not a concern, given that Pakistan recently hosted England and New Zealand successfully. ICC has yet to respond to the PCB and is currently in discussions with the participating teams regarding the tournament schedule.