The International Cricket Council (ICC) revealed a new visual identity for the men’s and women’s Champions Trophy on Wednesday. The announcement confirmed Pakistan as the host country for the prestigious event. The new design features elements of Pakistan’s culture, including Lahore’s Shahi Qila (Royal Fort) and traditional truck art.
The Champions Trophy will be a two-week event featuring the world’s top cricket teams. “The Champions Trophy sees the top teams in the world come together for a thrilling two-week competition where every match counts,” an official ICC statement said. The men’s event returns for the first time since 2017.
The 2024 tournament will see the best teams compete for the prestigious white jackets. A new women’s version of the event will also debut in a T20 format, featuring the top six teams from around the world.
New Format for Women’s Champions Trophy
The women’s Champions Trophy will introduce a T20 format, marking a new era for the competition. The event will take place every two years, with the top six women’s T20 teams battling for the white jackets. “A battle for the iconic white jackets will occur every two years, with alternating men’s ODI events and intense women’s T20 matchups,” the ICC explained. This new format will give the world’s best female players a chance to compete on a global stage.
India’s Reluctance to Travel to Pakistan
India’s participation in the men’s Champions Trophy remains uncertain. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Pakistan between February and March 2025. However, the Indian government has expressed reluctance to allow its team to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has communicated its position to the ICC, voicing concerns over sending the team across the border. India has proposed a hybrid model, suggesting its matches be played at a neutral venue outside Pakistan.
Pakistan Government’s Stance on Hosting Matches
In response to the BCCI’s proposal, the Pakistan government has made it clear that it does not want any matches moved outside the country. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been instructed not to shift any games to another venue. This has led to uncertainty about whether India will participate in the tournament in Pakistan, or whether the ICC will need to find a compromise solution.
Champions Trophy Title
Pakistan, the defending champions, will aim to retain their title after defeating India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final in the UK. Shaheens triumphed by a dominant 180-run margin in that historic final. The 2024 event is expected to be highly competitive, with many eyes on the potential showdown between Pakistan and India once again.
As the tournament draws nearer, the situation remains tense. The ICC, Pakistan, and the BCCI will need to resolve the issue surrounding India’s participation.
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