The long-standing deliberation over the future of the Champions Trophy seems to be finally finding a conclusion. Insiders from the Board of Control for Cricket in India, the International Cricket Council and the Pakistan Cricket Board state that a final decision will likely be made, and it could be announced on Saturday, December 14.
ICC Board Meeting To Take Place On Saturday
According to Cricbuzz, the ICC Board will hold a meeting on Saturday with new ICC Chairman Jay Shah joining in virtually from Brisbane where he is currently engaged in Olympic-related activities. The board is seen as a make-or-break moment for all parties, including the ICC, BCCI, and PCB, as they finalize details related to hosting the Champions Trophy.
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Resolution Comes After Intense Negotiations
Behind-the-scenes talks over the past few days have been intensive, with the final resolution emerging from these confidential discussions. According to sources of Cricbuzz, Pakistan is set to remain the official host for the Champions Trophy. However, the tournament will likely follow a hybrid model, with five of the 15 games, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash, being played in a secondary venue, most likely the UAE.
BCCI And PCB’s Stance
The future scenario of the BCCI complying with the PCB request to receive a similar hybrid package to host future ICC events remains unclear. This was the focal point of disagreement for quite some time between both of the boards. There were reports that an understanding on this issue has been finally reached, but still nothing is expected from the BCCI in writing over it. This was a constant issue during the whole meeting.
Pakistan’s Compromise and Possible Compensation
Whereas Pakistan had already built a strong case as the rightful host of the Champions Trophy, considering it an issue of national pride, it appears that the PCB has been offered a compromise in this matter. This will be that Pakistan can retain the role of host but in return gets adequate compensation to agree on the hybrid model. Some reports even claim that Pakistan could be compensated by being granted the rights to host an ICC women’s event during the 2027-31 cycle.
Addressing PCB’s Concerns
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi criticised the hybrid model but if there is an agreement in place, it means his issues have been taken care of, possibly in terms of financial compensation or otherwise. These informal agreements arrived at through backroom negotiations are now to be formalized by the ICC and would be done on Saturday itself.
The Final Ratification
Given the ICC Board is scheduled to meet on Saturday, that means this Saturday will finalize all those pending issues, mainly with the Champions Trophy hosting saga. This one’s going to seal the official word as a form of official nod after weeks of a give-and-take session that’s expected to provide the necessary foundation for an effective finalization.
