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Introduction:
The hosting plans for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy are being reconsidered, with reports suggesting a potential shift in venues. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is said to be exploring the possibility of moving the Champions Trophy from Pakistan to West Indies and USA, while compensating the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) monetarily for the change. This article delves into the details of this proposed shift and its implications.
Potential Change in Hosting, West Indies and USA in Focus:
The 2024 T20 World Cup, initially planned for West Indies and USA, might be relocated to Scotland and Ireland due to scheduling constraints faced by the United Kingdom. The UK can only host events in the May-June window, aligning with the original schedule for the T20 World Cup. As a result, Ireland and Scotland have emerged as alternative hosts for the tournament.
In parallel, discussions are underway to move the 2025 Champions Trophy from Pakistan to the West Indies and the USA. This potential relocation offers the USA an additional year to develop the necessary infrastructure for hosting the tournament. Considering that the Champions Trophy features fewer matches compared to the T20 World Cup, it is seen as a more logistically viable option for the chosen venues.
However, concerns have been raised about the current infrastructure situation in the USA. Hosting an event of the magnitude of the T20 World Cup poses significant challenges, including the availability of suitable venues. Furthermore, broadcasters in the sub-continent are worried about potential financial losses since the tournament held in the far west might not generate returns comparable to those from the subcontinent.
According to a source reported by News18, “The current infrastructure situation in the USA is not very encouraging. Even if they successfully host the upcoming Major League Cricket, hosting an event like the T20 World Cup is a different ball game altogether. Where will you host the matches when the venues aren’t ready? Also, a long tournament in the far west could be a loss-making proposition for the broadcasters in the sub-continent, where the returns are highest.”
It’s important to note that none of the countries involved in the hosting arrangements have signed the official “hosting agreements” yet. The ICC may initiate the process for these agreements during the annual conference in Durban in July. As part of the proposed changes, the ICC may request the PCB to agree to the venue swap, while considering monetary compensation to offset any potential financial impact.
Conclusion:
The possibility of shifting the 2025 Champions Trophy from Pakistan to West Indies and USA, along with relocating the 2024 T20 World Cup to Scotland and Ireland, is being actively discussed. The decision aims to accommodate scheduling constraints and address concerns regarding infrastructure and broadcasting rights. While no official agreements have been signed, the ICC and relevant cricket boards are exploring these options, with further developments expected during the ICC annual conference.
