ICC's Impulsive Decision Sparks Outrage in Cricket Community

The International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision to adopt a hybrid model for the 2025 Men's Champions Trophy, dividing the tournament between India and Pakistan, has reignited the simmering tensions between the two cricket boards. The move has been met with widespread criticism, with many viewing it as a strategic snub to Pakistan's efforts to host the tournament, disrupting a long-standing tradition of friendly cricket matches between the two nations.

The ICC's decision has been condemned by many as a clear endorsement of India's political power, rather than a consideration for the spirit of the game. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had expressed its desire to host the tournament, but was rebuffed in favor of a split arrangement that rewards India's sizeable international influence. The fallout from this decision has not gone unnoticed, with accusations of favoritism and incompetence being leveled at the ICC. The T20 cricket landscape has been dramatically altered by events over the past year, with the ICC stripping India's rival Bangladesh of hosting rights over a dispute. Likewise, Zimbabwe was upgraded from associate to full member status. However, despite this turbulent year, the ICC has failed to show decisive leadership and provide some much-needed scoring and certainty in the face of calls for increased transparency and better governance. The ignominious handcart-officesetting palpable alongside a giant warning light in practically slumping-standard places.