The International Cricket Council (ICC) has requested written reasons from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding its refusal to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, ARY News reported citing sources.
According to sources, the ICC has asked the BCCI to provide solid reasons for its decision, which must align with the organisation’s rules and regulations. If the explanations are deemed unsatisfactory, the ICC may direct India to participate in the tournament.
Sources revealed that India’s absence could result in a staggering financial loss for the ICC, estimated at $500 million. Moreover, the absence of highly-anticipated Indo-Pak matches could lead to an additional $100 million loss.
The development came amid uncertainty regarding the schedule of the tournament after the Indian government refused to send its team to Pakistan for the event.
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The International Cricket Council (ICC) was set to release the schedule earlier this week, however, the ambiguity regarding India’s travel plans to Pakistan resulted in a delay in the announcement of the schedule.
It is to be noted here that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC on November 9 that India would not travel to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Sources reported that the PCB has sought official clarification and concrete reasons for India’s refusal to tour Pakistan in a letter.
In its letter, the PCB clearly stated that hosting the Champions Trophy using a hybrid model is not an option, emphasizing that Pakistan will not compete against India at any alternate venue.
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