The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), known for leveraging its financial and monopolistic power, is now focusing on altering the inaugural ceremony and captains’ meet for the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan starting February 19.
Hybrid Model Hosting and Venue Changes
Under the hybrid model, the Indian cricket team will play its matches in Dubai. One of the semi-finals is also set to take place there. If the Indian team, referred to as the ‘Blue Shirts,’ reaches the final, it will be held in Dubai as well. Initially, the BCCI insisted on shifting its matches to Dubai, and now, they are raising concerns about the inauguration and captains’ trophy shoot and press conference planned in Pakistan.
Reports from Indian Media
Indian media outlets have started circulating reports from sources suggesting that Indian captain Rohit Sharma is unlikely to attend the opening ceremony and captains’ meet in Pakistan. When asked about this during a conversation with new BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, he mentioned that they had not received any such proposal, nor was it part of discussions with the ICC.
BCCI’s Stance on Pakistan Events
BCCI sources stated that they would not comply with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) desires. Reports indicate that in the absence of the Indian team, the inauguration and captains’ meet will be kept low-key. Notably, ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who is also the son of Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, will be a key figure to watch. If India does not make it to the final, which is scheduled to be held in Lahore, it will be interesting to see if Jay Shah attends the event to present the trophy.
Conclusion
The ongoing tussle between BCCI and PCB over the Champions Trophy arrangements highlights the political and administrative complexities in international cricket. With significant events and decisions yet to unfold, the cricketing world watches keenly.
