BCCI Accused Of Forcing Boards To Oppose Champions Trophy In Pakistan With Lucrative Financial Offers - Report

BCCI Accused Of Forcing Boards To Oppose Champions Trophy In Pakistan With Lucrative Financial Offers - Report (Source: AP)

The ICC Champions Trophy is in jeopardy after BCCI 's refusal to send team India to Pakistan. BCCI needed approval from the Indian government for the Pakistan tour, but they were denied, very understandably. BCCI wants the tournament to be played in a hybrid model, very similar to their stance for the Asia Cup 2022. PCB agreed to a hybrid model back then, with India's matches being played in Sri Lanka, however, the Pakistan board is in no mood to agree to it for the ICC Champions Trophy.

The PCB has sought a response from the ICC about India's decision to not come to Pakistan despite other teams agreeing to it. PCB reportedly are mulling over pulling out of the tournament if the ICC approves BCCI's hybrid model request. If the tournament is moved out of Pakistan or played in a hybrid model, PCB will suffer heavy financial losses. If they pull out, ICC and BCCI will suffer along with PCB as India - Pakistan matches generate the most revenue. If the tournament goes ahead without India, it will be an even bigger loss. Also, it will be a setback to the sponsors and broadcasters.

Meanwhile, media reports in Pakistan have accused BCCI of offering lucrative financial offers to other boards to oppose the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. According to a report in CricketPakistan, BCCI is offering boards a share of its ICC revenues and additional financial incentives, including millions of dollars in profits and promises of extra matches with the Indian team in future bilateral series, if they push for the relocation or hybrid model of the Champions Trophy.

Notably, ICC will take a call on Champions Trophy saga after consultation with other boards. PCB is still optimistic that the tournament could be played in Pakistan, with a higher-ranked team replacing India if they refuse to play. The deadline to announce the Champions Trophy schedule is November 19.

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