Will ICC Chairman Jay Shah Shift Champions Trophy 2025 Out Of Pakistan?

Jay Shah became the ICC Chief on Tuesday [X]Jay Shah became the ICC Chief on Tuesday [X]

On Tuesday, former BCCI secretary Jay Shah attained unprecedented heights in his political career as he took over as the new Chairman of the International Cricket Council. The seasoned administrator was elected as the ICC chief unopposed, with nobody contesting against him in the election. 

His appointment as the ICC chief officially marks the BCCI's journey as a superpower among cricketing bodies. 

While Cricket Australia and the England Cricket Board continue to have their influence, the BCCI is expected to control ICC's most of the administrative and financial decisions during Shah's tenure. 

Meanwhile, considering the strained political relationship between India and Pakistan, it won't be surprising if Shah's appointment proves costly for the PCB. 

Although the PCB is adamant about hosting the Champions Trophy entirely in Pakistan, Shah might play a key role in shifting some matches of the tournament out of the neighbouring country. 

For the unversed, Jay Shah is the son of India's honourable home minister, Mr. Amit Shah. Thus, he is indirectly linked with the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP), currently India's ruling party. 

As far as the Indian Government's stance is concerned, it is highly unlikely that the Indian Men's team will be allowed to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. 

India haven't travelled to the country since the 2008 Asia Cup, and the trend will likely persist, with someone related to the Indian Government being appointed as the ICC Chairperson. 

So, the ICC might now oblige to India's request for a hybrid model, and a portion of the Champions Trophy could be conducted outside Pakistan. 

Champions Trophy 2025: What do we know so far? 

The PCB has revealed the schedule for the Champions Trophy, which has also been approved by the ICC. As per the schedule, New Zealand will face Pakistan in the first game on February 19. 

The apex cricketing body has also allocated additional funds to PCB for a potential hosting of the competition outside Pakistan.