• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 07/03/2024
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a high-profile Champions Trophy match between Pakistan and India, scheduled to be held in Lahore on March 1 next year. This eagerly anticipated fixture is part of a draft schedule submitted by the PCB to the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet approved the proposed schedule, as per a senior ICC Board member who spoke to PTI on Wednesday.

Schedule and Venue Details

The Champions Trophy is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, with March 10 designated as a Reserve Day. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who attended the T20 World Cup final in Barbados, has submitted a schedule of 15 matches. All of India’s matches have been allocated to Lahore, citing security and logistical considerations.

“The PCB has submitted the draft of the 15-match ICC Champions Trophy. Seven games in Lahore, three in Karachi, and five in Rawalpindi,” an ICC Board member said.

“The opening match will be held in Karachi with two semifinals in Karachi and Rawalpindi, and the final in Lahore. All India matches (including semifinal, if the team qualifies) in Lahore,” the source added.

India is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Group B comprises Australia, South Africa, England, and Afghanistan. This setup promises exciting encounters throughout the tournament.

Security and Logistical Arrangements

Chris Tetley, the ICC head of events, recently met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad. This meeting followed a comprehensive inspection of the venues and other arrangements by the ICC’s security team.

Pakistan’s recent experience hosting a major cricketing event was the Asia Cup in 2023. The tournament was conducted using a unique ‘Hybrid Model’ due to the Indian government’s refusal to allow its players to travel across the border into Pakistan. Consequently, India’s matches were played in Sri Lanka, while the rest of the tournament took place in Pakistan.

“All board chiefs of the ICC Champions Trophy participating countries (minus BCCI) have assured him of their complete support, but BCCI will consult its government and update the ICC,” the source added.

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The ICC faces a challenging situation as it lacks the authority to compel any cricket board to act against its government’s directives. The BCCI will need to consult the Indian government before confirming their participation and schedule approval. The cricketing world is eagerly awaiting the BCCI’s final stance on the issue, which will significantly impact the tournament’s planning and execution.

The scheduling of an India-Pakistan match in Lahore for the Champions Trophy adds significant excitement and anticipation to the tournament. However, the BCCI’s approval is crucial for finalizing the schedule.