The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan, but India s decision not to travel to Pakistan to play its matches in the country has cast doubt over the event.
Pakistan, maintaining a resolute position, has reiterated that a hybrid model — where matches would be split across two venues — is not an acceptable option.
The latest decision was conveyed by the PCB to the ICC ahead of its board meeting over the controversy on Saturday (today). However, the cricket governing body announced that the meeting could not be held on Saturday, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India has reportedly sought more time after Pakistan s firm stance.
The progress on the matter would be made only after the ICC will give a reasonable and viable formula, Geo News quoted sources as saying. However, they added: "Pakistan’s stance is unchanged (on hosting)".
They maintained said that after Pakistan’s meeting with the ICC and other boards a day ago, the PCB had contacted various stakeholders.
On Friday, an ICC board meeting convened to discuss the future of the Champions Trophy was held for just 15 minutes.
The meeting agreed that Pakistan and India, in collaboration with the ICC, would work towards identifying an acceptable and workable solution for the tournament s hosting arrangements.
It was called in the wake of India s refusal to play in Pakistan, followed by Pakistan’s firm stance rejecting a hybrid model and warning that it would reciprocate by boycotting future events in India if the situation persisted.
Initial consultations during the brief meeting resulted in a consensus for Pakistan and India to explore a mutually agreeable plan, potentially involving two or three other member boards as facilitators, according to sources within the ICC.
Both Pakistan and India are likely to consult their respective governments before finalizing any arrangements, the sources said.
An ICC spokesperson confirmed the discussions, stating, "The board held a brief meeting today, and all members are committed to resolving the Champions Trophy issue amicably. Further meetings are planned in the coming days."
Meanwhile, BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla stated that the board is in discussions with the PCB and that the ICC is also working to find a solution to the matter.
"As far as our position is concerned, we will do what our government tells us to do," he told reporters.
