According to a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) source, if the Indian team declines to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy next year due to a travel ban citing security concerns, the PCB will require the BCCI to submit documented evidence of the Indian government’s denial of permission.
The host board is also in favour of finding a quick solution because the event is slated for February–March.
Although there isn’t a topic on the “Hybrid Model”—which would have India playing its games in the United Arab Emirates—at the ICC annual conference, which takes place in Colombo on July 19, the international organisation has, as usual, set aside extra money in case the competition splits into two countries.
“If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing, and it is mandatory for the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with the organising committee said.
“It is a fact that we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5–6 months before the tournament and in writing,” the top PCB source also stated.
Even at the PCB-hosted 2023 ODI Asia Cup, where India played all of their matches in Sri Lanka using a “Hybrid Model,” the BCCI has consistently maintained that playing cricket in Pakistan is solely a matter of government decision.
With a possible semifinal and final slated for Lahore, the PCB has already sent the ICC its draft schedule, which includes all of India’s games. The highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match is set for March 1.
The competition will begin on February 19 in Karachi and end on March 9 in Lahore with the final. In the event of bad weather, March 10 will serve as a backup date for the final match. There will also be a couple of games in Rawalpindi.
According to BCCI sources, there is currently no possibility of visiting Pakistan, and as far as we know, the ICC has set aside extra funds for any contingency plan.
“The ICC management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on,” the source confirmed.
