The International Cricket Council (ICC) has postponed its meeting in Dubai once more as the deadlock between Pakistan and India over hosting the ICC Champions Trophy remains unresolved.
India has rejected Pakistan's formula, which proposed holding matches of both teams at neutral venues over the next three years. The ICC has now given both countries two additional days to discuss and agree on a new framework to resolve the issue.
Sources indicate that the ICC is under pressure from broadcasters to finalize the schedule and hopes to reach a resolution by December 7. However, the stalemate has intensified, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah reportedly working to turn other cricket boards against Pakistan’s position.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi remains firm in countering Indian propaganda and upholding the PCB’s stance of equality. "Any decision will be based on equality," the board maintains.
The ICC's next meeting is scheduled for December 7.
The BCCI has made its stance clear, citing security concerns and rejecting the hybrid model proposed by the PCB. This model, which would see some of the tournament's matches held in a neutral venue, was presented as a compromise to allow the tournament to go ahead despite the current diplomatic impasse between the two nations.
India’s resistance to playing in Pakistan stems from a long-standing political and security stalemate between the two neighbouring countries.
An Indian media report highlighted that the BCCI had categorically refused to send its team to Pakistan, despite assurances from the PCB regarding safety.
