New Delhi: The dispute between Pakistan and India over the hosting of the 2025 Champions Trophy has intensified, following the release of a letter written by Indian broadcaster Star India to the ICC.
According to media reports, Star India had previously sent a letter to the ICC emphasizing the popularity of the Indian cricket team and its financial impact. The letter stated that the Indian team is the highest revenue-generating team for the ICC, and if the team were to withdraw from the tournament, the ICC could suffer a 90% loss of a $750 million deal. In contrast, the absence of Pakistan would only result in a 10% loss. The letter stressed that the ICC should make decisions with its financial interests in mind.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had previously refused to travel to Pakistan and proposed a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, which was strongly opposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Under this model, Pakistan and India would play their matches in the United Arab Emirates.
The letter has come to light just ahead of the ICC Board meeting on December 7, where a decision on the future of the Champions Trophy will be made. Both countries’ cricket boards have agreed on the hybrid model, and it has been decided that all ICC events until 2027 will feature men’s and women’s matches between the two nations in Dubai.
The leak of the letter has raised questions about the role of ICC Chairman Jay Shah, as the Indian cricket board and its sponsors are using their financial dominance to influence decisions.
This controversy highlights how diplomatic and financial factors have affected the transparency and integrity of cricket. The meeting on December 7 is expected to bring significant developments regarding the future of the Champions Trophy and the ICC’s decision
