Check Why Champions Trophy 2025 Could Shift to UAE
The Champions Trophy 2025 is most likely to be shifted to the UAE in the coming days. The tournament is set to begin on 19th February 2025. With barely a month away, the lack of preparation on the part of Pakistan is making the situation more critical. And, the seven teams have released their provisional squads for the 2025 edition except for the host Pakistan.
Earlier, the dispute between India and Pakistan postponed the declaration of the final date of the tournament. India opposed traveling to Pakistan due to security concerns and political issues since 2008. However, the ICC mediated between the two countries and came to a mutual agreement. All the matches of India were scheduled to take place in the UAE, and Pakistan will be playing at a neutral venue if India hosts ICC tournaments.
Reasons Why Champions Trohpy 2025 Venue Could be Shifted to UAE
PCB Incompetency in Constructing Stadiums
The recent updates suggest that the ICC could shift the tournament to the UAE due to Pakistan’s failure to carry out the organizing management. Pakistan was advised to work on their stadium upgrade and better hospitality for the visitors. The recent visit of the ICC to Pakistan let the management down. The officials at the helm are upset with the PCB for their incompetence in the operation.
As per the reports, things don’t look good with the progress of infrastructure development and time is also ticking. Earlier PCB was asked to complete the construction by December 2024 end but provided additional duration due to the delay in the tournament’s announcement. The work at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi Stadium, and Rawalpindi Stadium began last year in August only, the unfinished or unfulfillment as per the demands by ICC won’t be allowed to host any of the matches. A video has circulated recently on the internet that shows the pending work such as the installment of seats, fencing, dugout, and dressing room region when the tournament’s inaugural date is less than 30 days.
Venue Shifting of the Other Countries
Other factors could be the management of traveling and fatigue of other teams due to India’s matches in the UAE. Regular traveling to other countries may tire the opposition and create a disturbing camp environment. ICC would want the tournament to progress smoothly. The jetlags, the adaptability to different conditions, and other factors could also play a major role.
All these factors could lead to the shift in the venue of the Champions Trophy. This can also take away the opportunity from Pakistan to host any ICC tournaments in the coming times.
