ICC, BCCI renew talks to break CT stalemate

ISLAMABAD: The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have initiated fresh discussions to resolve the Champions Trophy deadlock.

According to multiple international sources, a new round of negotiations is underway, aimed at finding a solution that benefits all stakeholders. “The next few days are crucial as ICC and BCCI officials are engaging in renewed talks to break the stalemate. Both entities are under immense pressure to present a solution promptly,” an international source revealed to The News.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly played a pivotal role in compelling the ICC to re-engage with the BCCI. By strategically leveraging its position, the PCB has pushed for a resolution to ensure the announcement of the Champions Trophy schedule and other related matters without further delay.

The ICC has faced mounting criticism, particularly after the BCCI’s public refusal to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Stakeholders, including sponsors, are growing increasingly restless as the clock ticks closer to the tournament.

“The ICC has yet to respond to the PCB’s letter requesting written reasons for the BCCI’s refusal to travel. This delay has added to the mounting pressure, compelling the ICC to reinitiate contact with the BCCI to secure a workable solution,” the source added.

Delay in finalising the schedule risks jeopardising revenue streams. The ICC is reportedly exploring several options, including the controversial hybrid model previously rejected by the PCB.

In this model, matches involving India could be played at neutral venues while the rest of the tournament takes place in Pakistan. While the PCB has firmly opposed the hybrid model, sources indicate that the ICC may attempt to sweeten the deal by offering additional benefits. There is also speculation that the same hybrid arrangement could apply to future ICC events involving India and Pakistan.

“The ICC is in a tight spot, striving to propose a solution that satisfies both the PCB and the BCCI,” an insider stated. Given that the Champions Trophy is officially allocated to Pakistan, the PCB has signaled its readiness to pursue legal action if a unilateral decision is imposed.