Talks continue on fate of Pakistan Champions Trophy: ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Friday that discussions are ongoing to resolve the uncertainty surrounding next year’s Champions Trophy.

Sources informed that a meeting was held on Friday, but no decision was reached, and talks are expected to resume in the coming days.

India’s refusal to participate in the tournament, which is set to be hosted by Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, has thrown the future of the event into uncertainty.

The two countries have a history of political tensions, which has often been reflected in their cricketing rivalries. India has not visited Pakistan since 2008, and the two teams only meet at neutral venues or multi-team tournaments.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has remained firm on its stance, stating that the Champions Trophy must be held in Pakistan as scheduled. The PCB has rejected suggestions of hosting India’s matches in a neutral third country. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the board would act in the best interests of Pakistan cricket during the discussions.

The tournament would mark the first ICC event held in Pakistan since it co-hosted the 1996 World Cup alongside India and Sri Lanka. The previous Champions Trophy was held in England in 2017, where Pakistan emerged as the winner.

The situation remains unresolved, and further talks will likely determine the final outcome of the 2024 Champions Trophy.