The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, announced on Saturday that an International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting regarding the 2024 Champions Trophy had been postponed, leaving the tournament’s future uncertain.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined to send its team to Pakistan.
Addressing the media in Lahore, Naqvi stated that the ICC meeting had been delayed and assured that updates would be provided once details were finalised.
“We had a meeting (with the ICC) today, it’s been postponed. Once the details have been finalised, we’ll update you.”
Naqvi refrained from commenting on developments involving the ICC or BCCI concerning the Champions Trophy. However, he reassured the public by stating, “We will not disappoint the nation.”
He acknowledged that discussions were ongoing but avoided making premature statements, emphasising the aim of securing the best possible outcome for both Pakistan and international cricket.
“Talks are still ongoing, but I do not want to say anything that is premature. We are aiming to achieve the best for Pakistan and international cricket,” he said.
To prevent jeopardising negotiations, Naqvi opted not to elaborate further. “If the ICC progresses, cricket will progress. If there is a dent in the ICC, it will be felt across the world.”
Naqvi described Pakistan’s role in the discussions as “positive” but chose not to comment on the involvement of newly appointed ICC chief Jay Shah.
The last bilateral series between the two countries occurred in 2012. Since then, India and Pakistan have only competed in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
Pakistan’s participation in the ICC World Cup in India last year raised hopes of India reciprocating by touring Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
With India’s tour of Pakistan appearing unlikely, a hybrid model has emerged as the only potential solution. The PCB remains firm on insisting on “equal terms,” as Naqvi reiterated last week.
Broadcasters are reportedly urging the ICC to release the Champions Trophy schedule, with the tournament less than three months away.