The situation regarding the ICC Champions Trophy remains unresolved, with the Pakistan Cricket Board wanting to hold the entire event in their country, while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is unwilling to let the Indian team play in Pakistan. The BCCI prefers that India’s games be played in the UAE or Sri Lanka, but Pakistan has suggested hosting all of India’s matches in Lahore. No agreement has been made yet, and the ICC has reportedly prepared an alternative plan in case the Indian team does not travel to Pakistan.
Although the ICC has not openly discussed this issue with other cricket boards in recent meetings, a backup plan has already been set up.
According to a report on Cricbuzz, the note from the Chief Executives Committee (CEC) states: “The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed to the Host Agreement and has collaborated with the management to create an event budget, which has been sent to the Finance and Commercial Affairs (F&CA) for approval. The management has also approved a forecast of the additional costs that might be incurred if some matches need to be played outside of Pakistan.”
“In March 2024, a meeting was held to plan and inspect the potential match locations in Pakistan. Extensive renovation work is being carried out at all three venues to improve the facilities,” the note continues.
Regarding the financial plans, $35 million is designated for the event itself, and $20 million is reserved for player participation and awarding prizes. The top cricket organization has also set aside an additional $10 million for the expenses related to broadcasting the 15-match, 20-day competition.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has already distributed a preliminary schedule to important parties, such as TV channels and all the teams involved. According to this preliminary schedule, all of India’s games will take place in Lahore, and the much-anticipated India-Pakistan game is planned for Saturday, March 1.
