The ICC may revisit a proposal for a multi-team tournament involving Pakistan and India, with neutral venues such as the UAE, England or Australia reportedly possible.
WEB DESK: The possibility of a new multi-nation cricket tournament involving Pakistan and India is set to receive renewed attention, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) expected to consider a tri-series or four-nation format.
According to sources cited by Express, the proposal could be discussed during the ICC’s Future Tours Programme seminar scheduled for September 22 and 23 in Dubai.
Pakistan-India series proposal returns
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly advocated a multi-nation tournament involving Pakistan and India for several years.
Rather than arranging a bilateral One-Day International or T20 series, the proposed format would bring the two traditional rivals together with one or two additional teams.
The commercial and financial potential of such a multi-team tournament is expected to be among the issues examined during the ICC discussions.
Bilateral cricket remains suspended
Pakistan and India have not played a bilateral cricket series for more than a decade.
The two sides have continued to meet in major ICC and Asian Cricket Council tournaments, where their matches regularly attract significant global attention.
A multi-nation tournament could therefore provide another route for the teams to play each other without requiring the immediate resumption of a bilateral series.
Neutral venues could be considered
If the proposal moves forward, neutral venues could be considered for the tournament.
According to the report, the United Arab Emirates, England and Australia are among the possible locations.
However, no venue has been selected and there is no confirmed tournament schedule at this stage.
Government approval remains necessary
The proposed tournament would also face political and diplomatic considerations.
The Express report, citing Indian media, says the Indian government has fewer objections to India playing Pakistan in multi-nation tournaments than in bilateral series.
Nevertheless, government approval from both countries would reportedly be required for any new cricket engagement.
ICC meeting could determine next steps
Representatives of 12 Test-playing nations and eight Associate members are expected to participate in the upcoming Future Tours Programme seminar.
The meeting is expected to examine international cricket’s future scheduling and commercial considerations.
Whether the Pakistan-India proposal advances will depend on discussions among the ICC, member boards and the relevant authorities.
