Champions Trohpy: India likely to turn down Pakistan's proposal

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shown reluctance in accepting Pakistan's proposal to hold all International Cricket Council (ICC) matches between the two countries at neutral venues for the next three years, according to a report by Indian Express on Tuesday.

The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions within the ICC over the scheduling and venue of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

Sources indicated that a new "partnership formula" is being considered, under which India would play all their ICC matches, initially scheduled to take place in Pakistan, in Dubai.

Similarly, Pakistan would play their ICC matches scheduled in India at a neutral location, also in Dubai. This arrangement would be in effect for the next three years, with the goal of resolving the deadlock surrounding the Champions Trophy's hosting and venue.

Under the proposed formula, neither India nor Pakistan would host any bilateral or tournament matches in each other's countries during this period. The proposal is expected to be included in the host agreement for the upcoming tournaments.

Despite this, the BCCI has reportedly expressed concerns over the proposal, arguing that there are no security issues for international matches to be held in India.

This stance contradicts the concerns raised by Pakistan, which has sought written assurances from India regarding the security arrangements.

In the event that India does not provide such assurances, the ICC is expected to make the final decision regarding the Champions Trophy venue. 

The BCCI has previously refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan, citing security concerns despite assurances from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Discussions regarding the proposal are expected to take place within the next few days, with the ICC and the BCCI yet to officially address Pakistan’s proposal.