The Champions Trophy is generating significant buzz in the cricket world, with new developments emerging almost every day. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) finds itself in a difficult position after missing a key contractual deadline. According to Cricbuzz, the ICC was supposed to release the tournament’s fixtures and schedule at least 90 days in advance, but that deadline has now passed. So, why the delay? India has been clear from the start that it would not go to Pakistan due to geopolitical issues.
JioStar Facing Trouble?
But major consequences of this delay appear to be hurting media partners first and foremost Disney Star along with the newly formed JioStar. The two huge broadcasting companies are now threatened by severe concerns over their commercial viability. This undeniability is now presenting severe difficulties for the key financial contributors of international cricket, that is broadcasters while planning and marketing the tour.
Grievances Of PCB
India has been firm in its decision to not travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy, and Pakistan has remained adamant about not accepting a hybrid model. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is not sitting quietly over these issues. According to reports, a senior PCB official has reached out to ICC CEO Geoff Allardice to express growing frustration with the uncertainty surrounding the event. This follows previous concerns raised by the PCB after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that India would not be sending its team to Pakistan.
To add to the complications, it has been reported that broadcasters are against any suggestion that would put India and Pakistan in different groups. The hybrid model is the current one being considered where Pakistan will play its match against India in a neutral country. This potential resolution is expected to be discussed at an upcoming ICC meeting scheduled for November 29.
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