Pakistan is gearing up to host the ICC Champions Trophy next year, with Indian media reporting that India’s three pool matches might be held at two different venues. This move, suggested by ICC broadcasters, aims to enhance the broadcast quality and overall event appeal. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is open to this suggestion and has proposed Rawalpindi as one of the locations.

Initially, the PCB proposed Lahore as the venue for India’s matches, but broadcasters suggested adding another venue to ease travel for the Indian team. The proposed schedule includes India’s matches against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on February 23 in Lahore, followed by a much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and India on March 1.

Financial risks loom, as England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) officials have highlighted the importance of India’s participation. Without India, the tournament’s broadcast rights and financial returns could suffer. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the decision on India’s participation will depend on the Indian government.

If geopolitical tensions prevent India from traveling to Pakistan, the ICC is considering hybrid venue models, where India’s matches could be played outside Pakistan. The final decisions will be made as the event draws closer, but the stakes for broadcasting and global cricket are high.