ICC considering ‘partnership formula’ for Pakistan-India matches

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering a “partnership formula” to resolve the ongoing stalemate over the hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Geo News reported on Sunday.

According to the proposed plan, India would play their ICC matches originally scheduled in Pakistan at a neutral venue in Dubai. Similarly, Pakistan would play their matches, set to take place in India, in Dubai as well, sources revealed to Geo News.

The arrangement is expected to be in effect for three years, starting with the Champions Trophy. This approach is expected to settle the debate surrounding the tournament’s scheduling and venue, the sources added.

So, the sources said, India and Pakistan would not be playing any tournament in each other’s countries during this period.

It has been proposed to add this formula in the host agreement of both the teams, they said.

The tournament, scheduled to take place in Pakistan next year, has become a bone of contention between Pakistan and India, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refusing to send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns despite assurances.

An online meeting convened by the ICC on November 29 aimed at resolving the issue lasted just 15 minutes without concrete results.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has categorically rejected the hybrid model proposed during the virtual meeting, under which all of India’s matches would be played outside Pakistan.

The sources had told Geo News that the Indian cricket governing body had sought more time after Pakistan’s firm stance.

Meanwhile, the ICC has reportedly advised the BCCI to accept the formula, which would protect the board from legal proceedings from Pakistan.

“The cricket governing body is trying its best to resolve the matter without voting, which could take place if the PCB, ICC and BCCI do not reach a consensus,” an informer said.

According to the sources, there were fair chances of the matter’s resolution before reaching the phase of voting in a couple of days.

“It is quite possible that the need for a board meeting does not arise, if the three parties reach an agreement over a formula. The other board members would likely be informed of the formula afterwards. The formula’s name will not be hybrid though,” they said.

It should be noted that Pakistan has already dismissed the offer of extra money, stressing the need to resolve the issue with respect and equality.

A day ago, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had expressed optimism that a “long-term” formula, which would be beneficial for both the countries and cricket, would be chalked out that will apply to all future events of the ICC.

“We will not allow one-sided decisions […] decisions should be made based on equality,” Naqvi, who is also the interior minister, had said while speaking to journalists in Dubai on Saturday.