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LAHORE: According to Indian media, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly canceled an event initially planned to mark the start of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Lahore on Monday.
An Indian cricket website reported that the program was canceled due to scheduling issues, particularly after India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan.
Citing an official familiar with the situation, the report highlighted that the schedule for the tournament has not yet been decided, as negotiations with the host and participating nations are still ongoing. Once agreed, the schedule for the eight-team 50-over tournament will be officially announced.
“The schedule is still being worked out, and we are in discussions with all those involved. Once finalised, we will release it through our usual channels,” an official said. No official response has been issued by the ICC.
The event in Lahore was meant to mark the start of the 100-day countdown to the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 19, a milestone the ICC carefully planned.
However, heavy smog in Lahore has been cited as a possible reason for the cancellation, with an official noting that it could be a “convenient excuse” for the ICC to postpone the event.
The event was meant to be a flag-off for the trophy tour and the branding launch of the tournament, according to a source, who did not downplay the significance of the cancellation. However, outdoor activities are difficult due to air quality in Lahore.
However, a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official said that no such program was officially scheduled on Monday.
With India’s decision to skip the tour of Pakistan, it is likely that the ICC will adopt a hybrid model for the tournament, with the UAE playing a key role in hosting high-profile matches, especially between Pakistan and India. will appear as an option.
ESPNcricinfo reported that UAE could be the primary choice for such matches if the hybrid model is confirmed.
Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially informed the ICC that it would not be sending its team to Pakistan for the tournament, a decision that the ICC and the PCB said was an emergency. Can activate projects.
However, the hybrid model may face hurdles, as PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has asked the BCCI to submit any objections in writing. Naqvi asserted that Pakistan has shown goodwill in recent years but he does not expect to do so unilaterally.
The PCB has also suggested that if the Indian team participates, it can return to India between matches to limit its stay in Pakistan.
The long-standing rivalry between Pakistan and India has prevented the two teams from playing a bilateral series since 2012-13, while India last traveled to Pakistan in 2008. Contingency plans were discussed, including hybrid hosting options in nearby locations such as the UAE and possibly Sri Lanka. Months in advance by ICC and PCB as backup if required.
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