Champions Trophy: ICC demands written explanation from India

LAHORE: The International Cricket Council (ICC) demanded written reasons from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday, for their decision not to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy.

Sources revealed that the ICC asked the BCCI for written reasons explaining why the Indian cricket team would be unable to travel to Pakistan for the tournament beginning in February of 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked for a copy of the letter expected from the BCCI.

Up until now, the BCCI has only verbally informed the ICC about their refusal to travel to Pakistan. Based on the reasons provided, the ICC will make a final decision regarding how to move forward with India’s participation.

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If deemed invalid, the ICC will urge the Indian team to participate. Their exclusion from the tournament would likely cost the ICC around $500 million and the BCCI around $100 million, sources stated.

However, if India are steadfast in their decision to not participate, sources said that a 9^th team may be included in the tournament.

This team may be Sri Lanka, who failed to qualify for the Champions trophy for the first ever time after they fell short of securing a top eight finish in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

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