PCB has sent the preliminary schedule for the Champions Trophy to the ICC. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has submitted the preliminary schedule to the ICC for organizing the Champions Trophy. This time, the board has created the schedule keeping all matches of India in Pakistan without opting for a hybrid model. The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy will take place with eight teams in February-March next year.
Due to the strained political relations between India and Pakistan, the participation of Team India in the tournament remains uncertain. BCCI will need approval from the Indian government to send the team to Pakistan, as per ICC’s requirements.
Last year, a hybrid model was devised for the Asia Cup in the ODI format, allowing some matches to be held outside Pakistan. All matches of India were played outside Pakistan. Now, under the proposed schedule by PCB, if India doesn’t participate, there is speculation about venue changes.
PCB is optimistic that all matches of the Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan. The board is making extensive preparations for a successful event. ICC security team recently visited Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium for inspection. They expressed satisfaction with the facilities and security arrangements at the three venues.
During a press conference, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said, ‘We want the Champions Trophy to be held entirely in Pakistan. We have already submitted the schedule to the ICC. The ICC security team visited Pakistan, and they were very pleased with the arrangements.
