ICC exploring alternate venue for Champions Trophy?

In a bizarre turn of events, the International Cricket Council is exploring an alternate venue for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy tournament, which is scheduled to be played in Pakistan next year.

The tournament is scheduled to be played at three venues, Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.

However, new report emerged, that suggests the final of the tournament, which is scheduled in Lahore, is expected to be relocated on a different venue if India qualify.

Dubai is considered as one of the option for the final of the tournament if India qualify.

The tournament, scheduled to run from February 19 to March 9, 2025, is officially set to be hosted entirely in Pakistan, with all 15 match venues confirmed.

India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008, and there is currently no indication that the Modi-led government will lift its ban on tours to the country.

The final is currently slated for March 9 in Lahore.

If India progress to the final, the venue could remain undecided until just three days before the match, creating logistical challenges for competing teams, match officials, media, and fans.

In addition to potential adjustments for the final, if India reach the semi-finals, alternative venues such as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah may also be required to host matches on short notice.

The similar approach was adapted when Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup, where India played their all games including semifinal and the final.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that any decisions regarding touring Pakistan will be guided by the Indian government.