The fate of the ICC Champions Trophy remains deadlocked, with the Pakistan Cricket Board wanting to host the entire tournament at home while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is refusing to send the Indian team across the border. The Indian board wants its matches to be held in UAE or Sri Lanka, Pakistan has shared the proposal to hold all India’s matches in Lahore. Although there is no solution yet, the ICC has reportedly prepared a plan B in a case where the Indian team does not come to Pakistan at all.

Although the ICC has yet to publicly discuss the issue with other boards in recent meetings, a contingency plan has already been drawn up.

According to a Cricbuzz report, the approval note from the Chief Executive Committee (CEC) said: “The PCB has signed the host agreement and drafted the budget for the event in collaboration with the management to be approved by the F&CA. The administration has also approved an increase in the cost of organizing the event if it is necessary to play some matches outside Pakistan.

“A planning meeting and inspection of the proposed match venues was held in Pakistan in March 2024. Significant renovation work is underway at all three venues to upgrade the facilities,” the note added.

As for the budget, $35 million has been earmarked for the competition, while $20 million has been earmarked for participation and distribution of prize money. The top cricketing box office has earmarked another $10 million for television-related production costs for the 15-match, 20-day tournament.

The ICC has already shared a draft schedule with stakeholders, including broadcasters and all participating teams. In the draft schedule, all of India’s matches are scheduled to be held in Lahore, while the high-profile match between Pakistan and India is scheduled for Saturday, March 1.