The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has deferred to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to persuade the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, set for the first quarter of next year.

According to a PCB source, the event’s budget was recently approved during ICC meetings in Colombo, but the schedule and format were not discussed.”The PCB has fulfilled its duties as hosts of the Champions Trophy by submitting the draft schedule, format, and budget for the event,” a PCB insider told news agency PTI. “It is now up to the ICC to circulate, discuss, and finalize the schedule of the Champions Trophy.”

“The PCB has proposed in the draft schedule to host all of India’s matches in Lahore, including a semi-final (if India qualifies) and the final,” he said. Another source confirmed that the PCB has already provided all required details in its expression of interest document to the ICC. “The PCB has formally informed the ICC about tax arrangements, venue selections, and government clearance for hosting the Indian team in Pakistan for the event,” he added.

The PCB first showed interest in hosting the Champions Trophy in 2021, during Ehsan Mani’s tenure as Chairman. The ICC granted hosting rights in 2022, and the final host agreement was completed under Ramiz Raja’s chairmanship. Although PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi did not have formal meetings with BCCI secretary Jay Shah or other BCCI officials at the ICC meetings, their interactions were described as cordial.

Next Steps for ICC: Confirming schedule and securing Indian participation

The PCB has now delegated the task of finalizing and announcing the tournament schedule to the ICC. The ICC also needs to confirm with the BCCI regarding the Indian team’s travel to Pakistan. The budget for the tournament includes provisions for additional expenses in case the Indian team needs to play matches outside Pakistan.

SEE ALSO:Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024 Shafali Verma shines with 81 as India set up a big total for Nepal

Historically, the BCCI has stated that decisions about playing cricket in Pakistan are made by the Indian government. During the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, India played its matches in Sri Lanka under a ‘Hybrid Model.

‘According to the draft schedule, all of India’s games, including a possible semi-final and final, are set to take place in Lahore, with the high-profile India vs Pakistan match scheduled for March 1.

The PCB has completed all its responsibilities as hosts by submitting the draft schedule and budget and providing detailed documentation to the ICC. The ICC is now responsible for finalizing the event logistics and securing India’s participation.

According to PTI, the International Cricket Council (ICC) encountered a substantial financial setback, losing approximately USD 20 million (Rs 167 crore) while hosting the T20 World Cup 2024 games in the USA.

This issue is expected to be a major discussion point at the ICC Annual Conference starting Friday in Colombo. While it is not on the nine-point agenda of the Annual General Meeting (AGM), it will be addressed as part of a “post-event report.”

Financial losses from the T20 World Cup

A significant portion of the T20 World Cup, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan match in New York, was held in the USA. The financial losses incurred will be scrutinized during the conference. The ICC’s decision to host major matches in the USA aimed to expand cricket’s global reach but resulted in unexpected financial challenges.

Many matches throughout the World Cup were abandoned due to rain, with a significant number of cancellations occurring in the USA due to cyclonic weather in Florida. As a result, the ICC lost ticket revenues from those matches and suffered a substantial loss.

SEE ALSO:All you need to know about Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024: From squad details to  live streaming

Will Jay Shah lead the ICC?

Another critical topic for discussion during the AGM is the potential replacement of ICC chairman Greg Barclay by BCCI secretary Jay Shah. According to PTI, an ICC source mentioned that there is keen interest in Shah’s transition to the leadership of the world body.

“It is not about how but when, as he still has one year left as BCCI secretary before his cooling-off period in the Indian board starts in 2025 as per the constitution,” the source said.

There is speculation about changing the chairmanship term from three terms of two years each to two terms of three years each, which would facilitate Shah’s transition from BCCI to ICC. If Shah emerges as a contender for the ICC role, current chairman Greg Barclay may have to leave his post before the end of his tenure.

NEW DELHI: The upcoming ICC Annual Conference in Colombo, starting on Friday, promises to be a pivotal event for the cricketing world. Attention will be focused on BCCI secretary Jay Shah, as discussions may intensify regarding his potential succession of New Zealander Greg Barclay as chairman of the global body.

A major topic expected to dominate the conference is the financial losses the ICC incurred from hosting T20 World Cup games in the United States.

Reports indicate that the losses exceed USD 20 million. Although the nine-point agenda of the AGM does not explicitly mention the financial details, they will be addressed as part of a “post-event report,” a standard operating procedure. The agenda also includes the appointment of ICC’s new external auditor, discussions on ICC memberships, reports from associate members’ meetings, and the presentation of ICC development awards.

An important issue that is not on the ICC Board’s official agenda but might be raised under “Any Other Business” is India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. According to an ICC source, a key point of interest is when Jay Shah will assume leadership of the global body. The source stated, “It is not about how but when, as he still has one year left as BCCI secretary before his cooling-off period in the Indian board begins in 2025, as per the constitution.”

SEE ALSO:Former Sri Lanka Under-19 skipper Dhammika Niroshana shot dead at age 41

Potential changes to ICC Chairmanship terms to conform Jay Shah

However, if Jay Shah is to take over in 2025, Barclay will not be able to complete his third term from December 2024 to December 2026. Speculation suggests that the ICC might change the chairmanship term from three terms of two years each to two terms of three years, maintaining the cumulative six-year term. This change would allow Shah to complete his tenure as BCCI secretary and assume the ICC chairmanship in 2025 for three years during his cooling-off period from the BCCI. Subsequently, in 2028, he could return and take over as BCCI president.

The cricketing world is abuzz with the latest developments between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the Champions Trophy 2025. PCB has recently demanded written proof from the BCCI, verifying the Indian government’s denial of permission for the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

PCB demands for written proof

The PCB’s stance is clear: they require the BCCI to provide a written document from the Indian government, explicitly stating the denial of permission for the Indian team to travel to Pakistan. This demand is rooted in ensuring transparency and accountability, as verbal communications can be ambiguous and prone to misinterpretation.

See Also: Para-Badminton champion criticizes Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, and Suresh Raina for ‘mocking’ disabilities

“If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.

BCCI’s position

The BCCI has always maintained that the decision to play in Pakistan rests solely with the Indian government. Given the security concerns, the BCCI has expressed reluctance to commit to the Champions Trophy without governmental approval. This position is consistent with their actions during the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, where they opted for a Hybrid Model to avoid playing in Pakistan.

ICC’s role and responsibilities

The International Cricket Council (ICC) plays a crucial role in mediating such conflicts. While the ICC has not included the Hybrid Model discussion on its agenda for the upcoming annual conference, it has allocated additional funds to address any contingencies. The ICC’s position is to ensure that the tournament proceeds smoothly, irrespective of the participating teams’ locations.

“If the India government declines permission, it has to be in writing and it is mandatory on the BCCI to provide that letter to the ICC now,” the PCB source working closely with organizing committee told PTI.

The Champions Trophy’s logistics and scheduling could be significantly impacted if team India refuse to participate. The PCB has already drafted a schedule, with India’s matches, including a potential semi-final and final, planned in Lahore. If India withdraws, the ICC may need to consider alternate venues or even reformat the tournament.

“It is a fact that the we are insistent that the BCCI must inform the ICC about its travel plans to Pakistan at least 5-6 months before the tournament and in writing,” the top PCB source also stated.

Hybrid model discussion

The Hybrid Model, which allows teams to play their matches in neutral venues, has been proposed as a potential solution. Hosting the Champions Trophy as a two-country tournament would incur additional expenses. The ICC has earmarked funds to cover these potential costs, ensuring that the tournament can proceed without financial hindrances.

“The ICC Management is recommending additional costs just in case it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan if such a situation arises later on,” the source confirmed.

Indian vice-captain Hardik Pandya shared that he’s been through a tough few months during a recent chat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his home in New Delhi last Thursday.

During the IPL 2024 season, Pandya faced criticism from Mumbai Indians (MI) fans. He took over as captain from Rohit Sharma, but the team struggled, finishing last with only four wins in 14 matches.

However, Pandya bounced back during the T20 World Cup, scoring 144 runs at a strike rate of 150 and taking 11 wickets. His standout performance included key dismissals in the final against South Africa.

Hardik Pandya opens up about his personal and professional struggles

“Last 6 months have been very entertaining for me, there have been a lot of ups and downs and the public booed me. A lot of things happened and I always felt that if I give any answer, it would be through sports… So I believed that I would stay strong, will work hard” Pandya shared with Modi and the team during their discussion.

Following the World Cup, Pandya achieved the top spot in the ICC all-rounder rankings, a first for an Indian player. With Rohit Sharma stepping down from T20Is, Pandya is now a leading contender for the role of India’s new T20 captain.

Scotland’s women’s cricket team has scripted history by securing their maiden qualification for the Women’s T20 World Cup. Scotland have defeated Ireland in the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier by 8 wickets.

Overview of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier

The Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, held in Abu Dhabi, witnessed the participation of ten teams competing for two coveted spots in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Teams were divided into two groups, vying for a chance to advance to the semi-finals and eventually secure a berth in the tournament in Bangladesh.

See Also: PCB’s special award waits for Pakistan team if they win T20 World Cup 2024

Scotland’s Victory over Ireland

Scotland faced Ireland in the first semi-final in Abu Dhabi in a crucial encounter. Ireland, batting first, posted a modest total of 110-9, with Kathryn Bryce and Katherine Fraser wreaking havoc with the ball. Scotland’s Megan McColl played a stellar inning, guiding her team to a comfortable victory and securing their place in the finals of the Qualifiers.

Performance in the Qualifiers

Scotland’s journey in the Qualifiers showcased its resilience and determination. Despite facing formidable opponents, it displayed exemplary cricketing skills and team spirit. Finishing second in the points table, Scotland clinched three wins out of four games, setting the stage for its historic semi-final triumph.

Scotland’s Historic Achievement

This was the first time in nine editions that Scotland will play in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Scotland Women, who played their first T20I in 2018, have won 33 games in their 56 T20I outings thus far. They were placed in Group A in the Qualifiers along with Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uganda and the United States.

The Women’s T20 World Cup will begin on October 3, with the final on October 20. The winners of the Qualifiers will be placed in Group 1 along with Australia, India, New Zealand and Pakistan while the runners-up will be in Group B with Bangladesh, England, South Africa and West Indies.

Australia has overtaken India in the ICC Test rankings after the annual update. However, India has retained its top position in ODIs and T20Is.

In this cycle, only the matches played after May 2021 have been used as the basis for deciding the rankings. This means India’s 2-1 series win in Australia during December 2020–January 2021 has not been counted when determining the rankings.

See Also: Umpires and Referees for T20 World Cup revealed by ICC

ICC Test Rankings

Australia, which is at the top of the ranking, has 124 rating points on its account. India has 118 rating points. At the same time, England, which is in third place in the ranking, has 105 rating points. Apart from this, there has been no change in the standings of other test teams.

ICC ODI Standings

In the ODI rankings, India (122) has six rating points more than Australia (116). In this, South Africa is in third place, just four rating points behind Australia. Pakistan (106) is in fourth place, while New Zealand (101) is in fifth place.

ICC T20I Dynamics

India is still at the top of the T20I with 264 points. However, its lead over Australia has been reduced from 11 to seven points. South Africa has made the biggest gain in the latest rankings, moving from sixth to fourth. Whereas the Pakistan team has slipped two places to seventh place, and Scotland has overtaken Zimbabwe to be 12th.

West Indian cricketer Devon Thomas, aged 34, has been handed a significant five-year ban from all cricket activities, as announced by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday. Thomas’s ban stems from his admission of breaching seven counts of the anti-corruption codes of various cricketing bodies, including Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Details of Anti-Corruption Breaches

Thomas’s breaches of anti-corruption regulations span across multiple leagues, indicating a systematic violation of cricketing integrity. The specific nature of these breaches has not been disclosed, but they are serious enough to warrant a substantial ban.

See Also: Mark Waugh misses Jake Fraser-McGurk in T20 WC; Here’s why

Devon Thomas’s Cricket Career

With an international debut in 2009, Thomas has represented the West Indies in various formats, including Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. However, his career trajectory has been marred by the recent revelation of his involvement in anti-corruption violations.

Statement from ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit

Alex Marshall, the ICC General Manager overseeing integrity matters, emphasized the significance of Thomas’s ban in maintaining the integrity of cricket. Marshall’s statement underscores the ICC’s firm stance against corruption in the sport and serves as a warning to players and potential corruptors alike.

Alex Marshall, the ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Having played both international and professional domestic/franchise cricket, Devon attended numerous anti-corruption education sessions. He therefore knew what his obligations were under the Anti-Corruption Codes but failed to meet these obligations across three different franchise leagues.

“This ban is apt and should send a strong message to players and corrupters that attempts to corrupt our sport will be dealt with firmly.”

Suspension and Backdating of the Ban

The ICC has opted to suspend the last 18 months of Thomas’s ban, a decision likely influenced by his cooperation during the investigation process. Despite this leniency, the ban sends a clear message that breaches of anti-corruption protocols will not be tolerated.

Thomas was guilty of breaching the following codes: 

Article 2.1.1 of the SLC Code – contriving or being party to an agreement to fix or attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspects of matches in the Lanka Premier League 2021.

Article 2.4.4 of the SLC Code – failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, without unnecessary delay, full details of an approach or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct in the Lanka Premier League 2021.

Article 2.4.6 of the SLC Code – failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with the Designated Anti-Corruption Official’s investigation by failing to provide accurately and completely any information and/or documentation requested by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official.

Article 2.4.7 of the SLC Code – obstructing or delaying the Designated Anti-Corruption Official’s investigation into Corrupt Conduct, including (without limitation) concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of Corrupt Conduct.

Article 2.4.4 of the ECB Code – failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, without unnecessary delay, full details of an approach or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct at the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.

Article 2.4.4 of the CPL Code – failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, without unnecessary delay, full details of an approach or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct in relation to the CPL 2021.

Article 2.4.2 of the CPL Code – failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (without unnecessary delay) the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or benefit (a) that he knew or should have known was made in order to procure a breach of the CPL Code, or (b) could have brought the player or the game of cricket into disrepute.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled its proposed schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy, sparking discussions around the potential visit of the Indian cricket team to Pakistan after a hiatus of nearly 17 years.

Proposed Venue

Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi have been earmarked as the three venues for hosting the two-week Champions Trophy. Notably, Lahore is slated to serve as the base for the Indian cricket team, with all their matches scheduled in the city, including the final.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: ICC explains drop-in pitch conditions

Basing India in Lahore is a strategic move aimed at streamlining logistical and security arrangements. It offers a pragmatic solution to potential travel and safety concerns, particularly given the sensitive nature of cross-border sporting events.

Lahore’s proximity to the Wagah border crossing presents Indian fans with a relatively easier option to attend matches. This move aligns with efforts to foster cross-border cricketing ties and promote fan engagement across borders.

Historical Context: India vs Pakistan

The rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket is steeped in history, with matches between the two nations generating immense excitement and anticipation. However, political tensions and security concerns have often overshadowed sporting endeavours, impacting bilateral cricketing ties.

The last time an Indian cricket team toured Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup. Since then, bilateral cricketing exchanges have been marred by diplomatic strains and security challenges, leading to a prolonged hiatus in cross-border cricket.

The Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 marked a turning point, exacerbating tensions between the two nations and casting a shadow over cricketing relations. Subsequent developments, including geopolitical shifts and security threats, have further complicated efforts to revive bilateral cricketing ties.

Prospects and Challenges

The final decision regarding India’s participation in the Champions Trophy rests with the Indian government, underscoring the significance of diplomatic engagement and political considerations in shaping sporting events.

The final decision on whether India do visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy will be in the hands of the Indian government, rather than the BCCI.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed optimism about the participation of all eight teams in the tournament. However, the stance of the Indian government remains a pivotal factor in determining the feasibility of India’s visit to Pakistan.

On Tuesday evening in Karachi, Naqvi expressed the hope that “all eight teams” will come to Pakistan for the event, though he was not drawn into specifics about India’s position.

The Champions Trophy holds special significance for Pakistan, representing a landmark opportunity to host an ICC event after nearly three decades. The prospect of India’s participation adds a layer of historic resonance to the tournament, potentially heralding a new chapter in cross-border cricketing relations.

The upcoming Twenty20 World Cup in New York has raised concerns about the quality of pitches at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has moved to dispel these apprehensions, assuring fans of pitches conducive to exciting T20 cricket.

Designing the Pitches

Damian Hough, the head curator at the Adelaide Oval, spearheaded the preparation of the pitches for the World Cup. He emphasized that the pitches have been designed to offer good bounce, pace, and value for shots, typical of T20 cricket.

See Also: Ambati Rayudu shares disappointment after announcement of India’s T20 WC squad

“They will be typical T20 pitches, where there’s good bounce, good pace and value for shots,” the ICC said.

Perception in India

There’s a prevailing perception in India that the pitches in New York will be slow and spin-friendly. This perception is reflected in India’s team selection, which includes four specialist spinners.

“Obviously, you want the players to be able to play shots all around the ground. So that’s what we designed,” Damian Hough, who has prepared the pitches, said. Hough is the head curator at the Adelaide Oval.

Hough refrained from predicting the scores but highlighted the aim to produce pitches with minimal spin and seam, allowing batters to play shots freely.

Hough said he cannot predict what kind of total the pitches produce eventually. “I can’t predict the scores. That’s up to the batters to play that, but we can’t be happier where they’re at right now. Our ambition is to produce pitches along those lines where they’re good quality pitches, minimal spin, minimal seam and ball coming onto the bat and let the players play the shot.”

Preparation Process

The ICC prepared ten pitches at a turf farm in Florida and shipped them to New York’s Nassau County Stadium. Four of these pitches will be used for matches, while the rest will be utilized for practice sessions. New York’s climate necessitated the decision to use drop-in pitches, which could be more conducive to growing pitches within the required time-frame.

Chris Tetley, the ICC head of events, stressed the importance of delivering pitches of the highest quality. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to showcase their expertise to a global audience.

“Obviously, we’ve had to use drop in pitches because the climate in New York isn’t conducive to growing pitches within the timeframe we needed. You know, the harsh winter there wouldn’t have enabled pitches to be prepared. But in Florida, as we’ve seen, the conditions have been outstanding and perfect for the project that we’ve undertaken,” Chris Tetley, the ICC head of events, said.

“We’re now focused on bedding in the pitches here in New York to ensure we’re delivering an end product of the highest quality. The games in New York are a great platform for us to showcase our abilities to a global audience. It’s certainly a massive thrill for everyone at Adelaide Oval to be involved in such a huge event,” Hough added.

Matches in New York

New York will host eight matches involving nine teams, including India and Pakistan. The matches will occur at the temporary modular stadium at Eisenhower Park in Nassau County. A total of eight matches involving nine teams will feature in New York, including Sri Lanka, Canada, Ireland, Bangladesh, South Africa, the Netherlands, and the USA, besides India, Pakistan, with the first match taking place on June 3, between Sri Lanka and South Africa