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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly planning to hold an emergency meeting on November 26, 2024, to finalize the dates and venues for the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This marquee tournament is set to take place in February and March 2025, but significant decisions still need to be made, particularly regarding hosting arrangements between Pakistan and India.
PCB’s Stance: India Should Visit Pakistan
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed its desire for India’s cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. This request stems from the fact that Pakistan participated in the ODI World Cup in India last year, showcasing a willingness to uphold the spirit of the game despite political tensions.
History of the Hybrid Model
Last year, Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup 2023 under a hybrid model, where India played its matches in Sri Lanka. This arrangement was made to accommodate India’s reservations about playing in Pakistan. While this approach allowed the tournament to proceed, the PCB is now advocating for a direct approach where India tours Pakistan, emphasizing equality and fairness.
India-Pakistan Rivalry: Limited to ICC and Asia Cup Tournaments
The intense cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan has been limited to ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup in recent years. The two teams last played a bilateral series in 2012-13, which took place in India. Since then, political and diplomatic issues have prevented the resumption of bilateral cricketing ties.
ICC Champions Trophy: A Return to Pakistan’s Grounds
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 holds immense significance for Pakistan, as it will mark the country’s first time hosting this prestigious tournament since 1996. This opportunity provides a platform for Pakistan to showcase its cricketing infrastructure, especially after successfully co-hosting the Asia Cup 2023.
Anticipation for November 26 Decision
With the tournament scheduled just months away, the upcoming ICC emergency meeting is critical. Key decisions about venues and dates are expected to address the PCB’s concerns while ensuring smooth tournament operations.
FAQs
- When is the ICC emergency meeting scheduled?
- The meeting is expected to take place on November 26, 2024.
- When will the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 be held?
- The tournament is scheduled for February and March 2025.
- Will India play in Pakistan during the Champions Trophy?
- The PCB has requested India to play in Pakistan, but a final decision will be made during the ICC meeting.
- What was the format of the Asia Cup 2023?
- The Asia Cup was held in a hybrid model, with Pakistan hosting some matches and India playing in Sri Lanka.
- When did India and Pakistan last play a bilateral series?
- The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan was held in 2012-13 in India.
- Why hasn’t India toured Pakistan in recent years?
- Political tensions between the two nations have prevented bilateral tours.
- What is the significance of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for Pakistan?
- It’s Pakistan’s first time hosting the Champions Trophy since 1996, making it a landmark event.
- Which ICC tournaments feature India and Pakistan matches?
- India and Pakistan often face off in ICC tournaments like the World Cup and the Champions Trophy, as well as in the Asia Cup.
- What are Pakistan’s expectations for the ICC meeting?
- Pakistan is seeking a commitment from India to play in Pakistan during the Champions Trophy.
- What challenges does the ICC face in finalizing the Champions Trophy venues?
- Balancing political sensitivities, ensuring team participation, and addressing logistical concerns are the main challenges.
