Karachi: It was declared the responsibility of the ICC to bring the Indian team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Yes, all the matches of blue shirts in the event are held in Lahore, even in case of reaching the final, the visiting team will have to play at Gaddafi Stadium. On the other hand, the budget approved by the ICC for the Champions Trophy also includes ancillary expenses, the aim of which is to hold the matches at another venue in case the Indian team does not come to Pakistan.
According to the details, the Champions Trophy is to be held in Pakistan next year, but as usual, India is not confirming the sending of the team. Meetings were held, but there was no mention of the Champions Trophy in the declaration, due to which there was no discussion on the schedule and format of the event.
The PCB has made it the ICC’s responsibility whether India comes to Pakistan or not. Pakistan as the host has submitted the schedule and format of the Champions Trophy, now it is up to the council to present it to the participating member nations. After a debate on how soon to finalize it, the current schedule has all the Blue Shirts matches being held in Lahore. Even in the case of reaching the final, the Blue Shirts will have to play at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Sources confirmed that the PCB has already informed the ICC in writing about all the financial details, including the payment of revenue. On the other hand, ICC is waiting for confirmation from BCCI on the decision of Indian cricket team to go to Pakistan.
