Champions Trophy Controversy: Impact on ICC's Media Partners and Future of ODI Format
As the Champions Trophy controversy nears its conclusion, new dimensions are unfolding. The International Cricket Council (ICC) may have missed the deadline to release the tournament's fixtures and schedule, causing trouble for its stakeholders, particularly Disney Star or merged Jio Star. Their incapacity to exploit the tournament could result in significant commercial implications.
The ICC's silence on commercial matters is boosting concerns for its business partners, its stakeholders, and the hosts as the deadline has passed. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the designated hosts, has voiced concern over the prolonged resolution of the issue. In separate developments, it has been reported that the broadcaster opposes the proposal to decouple India and Pakistan into separate groups.
Questions are also being raised about the relevance of the 50-over format in light of the rising popularity of the shorter T20 format. Some believe that a Champions Trophy without an India-Pakistan match, particularly when efforts are being made to rejuvenate the ODI format, would detract from the appeal of the tournament.
If ICC wants to resurrect the 50-over Champions Trophy highlights tow factors: the necessity of releasing the schedule in a timely manner to satisfy commercial interests, and the need for an India-Pakistan face-off to boost the relevance of the ODI and draw audiences. The forthcoming ICC meeting on November 29 will likely provide further insight into these ongoing issues.
