ICC meeting: Discussion on ‘Hybrid’ model for hosting Champions Trophy set to dominate on November 29

ICC board meets to discuss Champions Trophy schedule amid India-Pakistan standoff, potential financial implications, and broadcaster concerns.

The International Cricket Council finds itself in a spot of bother as its all-powerful board meets on Friday (November 29, 2024) to thrash out the long-awaited schedule of next year's Champions Trophy with an unyielding Pakistan refusing to consider the 'Hybrid' model of hosting the event despite India's refusal to play there.

The meeting will be held virtually. India's decision not to send the team to Pakistan and the PCB's defiant stand in not acceding to the hybrid system have placed the future of the marquee event in balance.

“At this point, the hybrid format is the best option. We hope that all the parties involved will take a wise call for the sake of the tournament. It’s not good for the tournament to have it without India and Pakistan,” a source close to the development told PTI.

The ICC members are trying to sell the point to the PCB that without the blue riband India vs Pakistan fixture, the Champions Trophy will lose all its sheen and, more importantly, there will be massive financial implications.

The host broadcaster — Jio Star — has already contacted the ICC top brass to convey its dismay at the delay in arriving at a final decision regarding the schedule.

As per the contract between the ICC and the broadcaster, the governing body was expected to give it the schedule of the tournament at least 90 days in advance and that deadline has already been breached.

So, will the members discuss the possibility of placing India and Pakistan in different groups in the league stage of the tournament to avoid Men in Blue's travel to the neighbouring country? "I don't think the television rights holders will agree to that. They will demand an India vs Pakistan match in the group stage itself as an assured way to raise the profile and monetary income, and it will be a bonus if the teams then meet in the knockouts," the source said.