Champions Trophy: ICC Questions India Over Pakistan Tour Refusal

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide written justification for its refusal to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.

Sources indicate that the ICC has demanded the BCCI’s reasons be consistent with the organisation’s rules and regulations. Should the explanation fail to meet these standards, the ICC may direct India to participate in the tournament.

India’s absence could result in substantial financial repercussions for the ICC, with estimated losses of up to $500 million. Additionally, the lack of high-profile Indo-Pak matches could lead to an extra $100 million loss, according to sources.

This development follows the Indian government’s decision to bar its team from traveling to Pakistan, causing uncertainty around the tournament’s schedule. The ICC was expected to release the Champions Trophy schedule earlier this week, but the ambiguity surrounding India’s participation delayed the announcement.

The BCCI officially informed the ICC on November 9 of its decision not to send its team to Pakistan. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought clarification, emphasizing in a letter that hosting the event under a hybrid model is not an option. The PCB also stated that Pakistan will not face India at any alternate venue.

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