As uncertainty continues to loom over the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, a five-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) is scheduled to visit the country for a crucial inspection. The delegation, which includes officials from the ICC’s Events and Security Departments, as well as the General Manager Cricket and Production Manager, will arrive in Pakistan on Tuesday to assess the nation’s readiness to host the prestigious tournament.
Ongoing Preparations and Discussions
The ICC delegation’s visit comes amidst reports that the Champions Trophy could be held in a hybrid model, with a few games played outside of Pakistan due to India‘s constant refusal to visit their neighbors. The tentative schedule, which involves the Indian team being based in Lahore and playing all their matches in the city, is expected to be discussed during the visit.
The two parties, the ICC delegation and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), are also likely to discuss the chances of India not travelling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. This issue has raised significant question marks over whether the tournament will be hosted in the country as originally planned.
Inspection of Venues and Security Arrangements
The ICC delegation’s itinerary includes inspecting the ongoing renovation work in Karachi and the team hotel arrangements before checking out arrangements in Islamabad and Lahore. Andy Atkinson, the ICC Pitch Consultant, has already visited Pakistan on three different occasions since April, demonstrating the governing body’s commitment to ensuring the country’s readiness.
During the visit, the delegation, which includes the ICC Security Manager, will receive briefings from security officials in Pakistan. This comprehensive approach aims to address any concerns and ensure that the necessary safety measures are in place for the smooth running of the tournament.
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The Way Forward
As the ICC delegation conducts its inspection, the PCB remains hopeful that the Champions Trophy will be hosted in Pakistan as originally planned. However, the uncertainty surrounding India’s participation continues to cast a shadow over the event.
The source informed PTI that it will ultimately be the ICC’s decision when they finalize and announce the schedule for the Champions Trophy. This decision will have far-reaching implications for the future of cricket in Pakistan and the global cricket community.
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