The ongoing dispute surrounding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy escalated this week as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) considers the possibility of a tournament boycott, following India’s refusal to participate in the tournament hosted in Pakistan. According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of its decision not to send players to Pakistan, citing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

This latest development has put the PCB in a challenging position, as the ICC recently clarified that a Pakistani boycott could result in significant financial repercussions. If Pakistan refuses to adapt to a “hybrid model” of hosting that includes matches at neutral venues, the PCB risks forfeiting the full $65 million hosting fee, along with a reduction in ICC funding, sources report.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, however, has expressed skepticism over the legitimacy of these claims, emphasizing that no formal communication has been received from either the ICC or BCCI regarding India’s withdrawal or the potential hybrid model. “We have a clear stance that any concerns should be communicated to us in writing,” Naqvi said, adding that despite media reports, the PCB has not yet received any official notification. He assured reporters that Pakistan remains open to discussing the hybrid model if it is proposed formally, yet maintained that no such proposal has been received to date.

Since being awarded the 2025 Champions Trophy, the PCB has faced concerns over India’s likely non-participation due to ongoing political strains between the countries. India has not played in Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, with the two teams only meeting at neutral venues in ICC-organized events.

The ICC, for its part, appears willing to support the hybrid model to ensure India’s participation. According to PTI, if the PCB agrees to host a portion of the tournament at a neutral venue, the ICC will guarantee that Pakistan receives full hosting fees and retains the right to host the majority of matches domestically.

As diplomatic challenges complicate preparations, the PCB’s decision may hinge on its assessment of both national pride and financial implications. If Pakistan decides to withdraw, the Champions Trophy’s status and revenue for the PCB could face a substantial setback. Meanwhile, the ICC’s next official stance will be closely monitored as all three parties navigate this high-stakes standoff.