Champions Trophy In Danger, Sri Lanka Withdraw From Tour Due To Political Unrest

Political unrest in Pakistan to hamper Champions Trophy [Source: Source:@PCB/X.com]

The Champions Trophy fate hangs in jeopardy as only three months are left for the event and we still have no clarity on the hosting rights. Pakistan are still the hosts, officially, but due to the recent political unrest in the country, Sri Lanka A have pulled out of their Pakistan tour midway.

PCB on Tuesday confirmed that the two unofficial ODI matches against Sri Lanka A have been postponed due to the ongoing protests in Islamabad. On Tuesday, the supporters of former Prime Minister, Imran Khan turned violent, which resulted in several policemen losing their lives. As a result, government decided to bring in the army and they also threatened to impose the curfew.

Rawalpindi Stadium conducted the first two unofficial Tests between Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A, with the hosts winning the second Tests, and the first one was a drawn affair. Pakistan also won the first ODI before the remaining two were postponed.

The PCB stated that it will work alongside the Sri Lankan board to set a final date for the final two matches.

ICC to host meeting with BCCI, PCB

 Amidst the political unrest in the nation, PCB also has to deal with India's demand of the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy. However, PCB outright rejected the idea and clearly stated that the entire event will take place in Pakistan.

The Indian government denied sending the team to Pakistan due to the security reasons as PCB got offended and approached the ICC to intervene. On Friday, ICC has decided to conduct a meeting with both the boards to finalise the Champions Trophy venues. Most likely, looking at the ongoing situation in Pakistan, the hybrid model will stay.

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