Jay Shah for ICC Rajeev Shukla for BCCI. Image Credits: X
In recent months, tensions between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have grabbed global attention. What started as a political disagreement between India and Pakistan is now slowly turning into a major issue for world cricket.
As a result, India could lose hosting rights for some of the biggest ICC tournaments in the coming years.
India at risk of losing ICC events
It is important to understand the background. India and Pakistan have refused to play cricket in each other’s territory due to long-standing political tensions. Due to this, the International Cricket Council had to introduce a “hybrid model” for tournaments. Under this model, matches involving the two nations are played at neutral venues.
Earlier, India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Therefore, an agreement was made that both teams would avoid touring each other’s countries during global events. This arrangement was initially valid until 2027, but now it looks likely to be extended.
ICC considering venue shift for upcoming tournaments
However, matters have become more complicated. According to the Australian publication The Age, the ICC is now thinking about shifting future tournaments away from India. In particular, the 2029 Champions Trophy and the 2031 ODI World Cup could be moved to another country.
Since India and Pakistan refuse to play in each other’s countries, hosting tournaments in India creates logistical and political challenges. Moreover, if one team pulls out, it could create financial and scheduling chaos.
Political tensions with Pakistan and Bangladesh
Meanwhile, Bangladesh have also entered the picture. Recently, Bangladesh refused to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup due to security concerns. When the International Cricket Council declined to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh decided to withdraw from the tournament.
As a result, the situation has become even more sensitive. Not only are India and Pakistan at odds, but Bangladesh have also shown reluctance. Therefore, ICC officials are now discussing backup plans to avoid last-minute crises.
Furthermore, the India vs Pakistan match is not just about cricket; it is about money. Reports suggest that this single fixture is worth nearly $250 million in revenue. Because of its massive viewership, it becomes the backbone of global cricket finances.
During the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, India defeated Pakistan in a one-sided match in Colombo, which became the most-watched game of the event. Therefore, the ICC cannot afford the risk of the match being cancelled due to political disputes.
Australia emerge as a front-runner to host ICC tournaments
In this scenario, Australia have emerged as the top backup option. Australia successfully hosted the ODI World Cup in 2015 and the T20 World Cup in 2022. Additionally, it will co-host the next T20 World Cup with New Zealand.
Notably, Australia have strong infrastructure and a stable political environment, the International Cricket Council sees it as a safe alternative if tournaments are moved from India. In conclusion, growing tensions have placed the BCCI in a difficult position with the ICC.
