PCB Chairman Questions ICC Credibility Amid Controversy Over 2025 Champions Trophy Venues

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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed concerns over the credibility of the International Cricket Council (ICC) following the controversial rescheduling of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy Trophy Tour venues.

The controversy began after the PCB announced northern towns such as Skardu, Hunza, and Muzaffarabad as tour venues. Following objections reportedly raised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) through Indian media, the ICC quickly intervened, asking the PCB to alter the venues. The revised list of venues was subsequently published by the ICC on its website and social media platforms.

The initial venues sparked objections due to their geographical status within Azad Jammu & Kashmir. Responding to questions about the ICC's perceived double standards—citing Leh as a venue during the 2023 World Cup Trophy Tour—Mohsin Naqvi called for the governing body to remain neutral.

“I think ICC should reconsider its credibility,” the PCB chairman remarked during a press conference at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. “It is meant to represent all cricketing bodies of the world equally.”

The ICC has also faced scrutiny over the uncertainty surrounding the Champions Trophy itself, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Despite granting Pakistan hosting rights in 2021, the ICC has been put under pressure after the BCCI verbally communicated its reluctance to send the Indian team to Pakistan, citing governmental disapproval.

The PCB has sought an official explanation through the ICC regarding the BCCI's stance but is still awaiting a response. "We have written a letter, and we are waiting for a reply," Mohsin said. He emphasized the separation of sports and politics, expressing hope for resolution.

As speculation mounts about a possible shift of the tournament away from Pakistan, Mohsin reaffirmed Pakistan's rights as a host nation and ruled out the possibility of a hybrid model. He added, “If India has concerns, they can talk to us, and we will address those concerns. I don’t see any reason why India shouldn’t come.”

The backdrop to Mohsin’s remarks was the ongoing renovation work at Gaddafi Stadium, which is being prepared to host Champions Trophy matches, including the final. The PCB remains optimistic while awaiting further announcements from the ICC regarding the tournament's schedule.