New Delhi: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly wants written proof of the Indian government from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after rumours spread that the Men in Blue do not wish to travel to Pakistan to compete in the ICC Champions Trophy next year. The development comes after reports emerged that the ICC is planning to host th Champions Trophy in a hybrid model, with India’s matches potentially being played in the UAE instead of Pakistan.
According to a report by PTI, a source close to the PCB has stated that the board would require the BCCI to submit a written document from the Indian government denying permission, citing the travel ban on security grounds. The report further added that the PCB is keen to resolve the matter promptly, as the tournament is scheduled for February-March. The provisional schedule revealed that all of India’s matches were set to be held in Lahore.
“If the Indian government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI. “It is a fact that the 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 further stated.
Although, BCCI is yet to confirm whether they will travel to neighbouring country for the tournament or not, there were rumours that they will not travel at any cost, which was quashed by BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla last week. However, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi remained confident about hosting the full tournament in Pakistan, but the final decision rests with the ICC and may not come anytime soon.
There might be an update later this week as the ICC is set to hold its Annual Conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Although there is no agenda on the ‘hybrid model’ for the Champions Trophy at the ICC Annual Conference, the global body has allocated additional funds in case the tournament becomes a two-country event.
The BCCI has consistently stated that playing cricket in Pakistan is entirely a government decision. Even during the 2023 ODI Asia cup, hosted by the PCB, India played all their games in Sri Lanka under the ‘hybrid model’. If BCCI sources are to be believed, at this point there is no chance of the Indian team travelling to Pakistan and knowing fully well, the ICC has allocated additional budget for any exigency 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.
