Champions Trophy 2025 In Danger! Broadcasters Demand Immediate Release Of Schedule From ICC
Broadcasters force ICC for immediate schedule (Source:@ toisports,x.com and @LoyalSachinFan,x.com)
The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has again found itself at the heart of a growing controversy. This time the Broadcasters who secured the tournament's lucrative media rights are reportedly putting immense pressure on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to release the event schedule immediately.
The schedule for the mega event was initially expected earlier this week, but the delay in finalising the schedule, has led to increased tensions. The broadcasters have also warned ICC regarding significant financial loss if the situation remains unresolved.
Why Do Broadcasters Want ICC To Release Champions Trophy Schedule Immediately?
According to the reports of Cricket Pakistan, sources close to the matter revealed that broadcasters are running out of patience with the ICC, especially after having invested heavily in securing media rights for ICC events till 2027. It is important to note that, $3 billion deal signed last year included rights for high-profile tournaments like the ICC World Cup, T20 World Cup, and the Champions Trophy.
According to the same report, one of the primary reason for the delay appears to be the Indian government’s decision to prohibit its Team India from traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. This stance has thrown the entire tournament planning into disarray.
With India, refusing to participate in the event if held in Pakistan have increased the problem for the broadcasters even more as they fear a substantial drop in viewership and advertising revenue.
Meanwhile, on the other hand, the PCB has decided to remain resolute and have rejected the proposals for a hybrid model for the mega event.
In hybrid mode India's matches would be shifted to a neutral venue while allowing the rest of the tournament to proceed in Pakistan. PCB officials have emphasised that this event is crucial for Pakistan as it is finally hosting an ICC event after 2008 Asia Cup.