Champions Trophy: India’s stubbornness creates more issues for ICC

India’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy has created significant challenges for the International Cricket Council (ICC). The announcement of the tournament’s schedule, which was expected earlier this week, has been delayed due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) standing firm on its decision.

Broadcasters, who secured a record $3 billion deal for broadcasting rights until 2027, had expected India-Pakistan matches to be part of the schedule, as these high-profile clashes typically bring in massive viewership and revenue. India’s refusal has put the ICC in a difficult position, and without a clear timeline for the schedule, broadcasters are facing potential financial losses.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has written to the ICC, seeking answers to several important questions. They want to know when the BCCI informed the ICC about India’s withdrawal from the Champions Trophy in Pakistan and have asked for a copy of the written communication from the BCCI outlining their reasons for the decision. The PCB also wants to know how the ICC has responded to the BCCI’s refusal.

Once the PCB receives these answers, they plan to consult legal advisors and government officials to decide on their next course of action. If India does not participate and the ICC accepts the decision, the PCB has stated that they will refuse to play against India in any Champions Trophy matches.