Broadcasters Urge ICC to Release Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule Amid India-Pakistan Travel Uncertainty
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing pressure from broadcasters to promptly release the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, which was originally expected earlier this week. The delay reportedly stems from the Indian government’s advisory preventing the Indian cricket team from traveling to Pakistan for the tournament, complicating event planning and impacting commercial preparations.
Broadcasters, who invested a record $3 billion for ICC event rights through 2027, emphasize the importance of marquee matches, particularly between Pakistan and India, for driving viewership and maximizing advertising revenue. Pakistan-India encounters are among the most-watched matches globally, generating massive audiences and serving as cornerstones in broadcasters’ revenue strategies.
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An early release of the schedule, broadcasters argue, would enhance their ability to promote and prepare for these high-demand events, optimizing commercial opportunities across global markets. The delay complicates these efforts, as broadcasters require adequate lead time for marketing and logistical planning.
On November 9, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC of the Indian government’s advisory against the team’s travel to Pakistan, citing long-standing security and political issues. India’s last visit to Pakistan was for the 2008 Asia Cup, whereas Pakistan has traveled to India multiple times, including last year for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.
The ICC now faces the challenge of balancing diplomatic sensitivities with the financial interests of its broadcasters, whose revenue expectations hinge on the early availability of the Champions Trophy schedule.
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