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In the biggest news from the cricketing world, International Cricket Council (ICC)’s CEO Geoff Allardice has stepped down from the position amid the ongoing questions over Pakistan’s readiness to host the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. Notably, ICC confirmed Pakistan as the host for the 50-over marquee tournament after they won the last edition, which took place in 2017. However, India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan, citing security concerns forced the tournament to move to a hybrid model.
Although, India will play all its matches at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, three of Pakistan’s stadiums in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi will host the remaining matches. With the tournament now less than a month away, the stadiums in the host nation are still under renovation, raising several eyebrows and thus leading to Geoff’s decision to quit from ICC’s position.
ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigns amid questions over Pakistan's preparedness for CT 2025
Despite being asked several times on the preparedness to host the upcoming ICC event in Pakistan, the ICC CEO has taken a stern step and has quit from the position. "It has been a privilege to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the International Cricket Council, and I am incredibly proud of the results we have achieved, from enhancing the global reach of cricket to the commercial foundation put in place for ICC Members," Allardice said in a statement.
Allardice also revealed the shocking details behind the T20 World Cup 2024, which saw the ICC exceed the budget by numerous folds, adding, "The ICC T20 World Cup in the US was a big flop in terms of playing conditions and also it exceeded budget, the auditing is still being done." But Geoff Allardice revealed that what broke the camel’s back was the failure to present a “clear picture” of Pakistan’s stadium.
“What broke the camel's back was Champions Trophy where as CEO, he was supposed to give a clear picture about readiness of Pakistan to host a tourney of such magnitude," he added. It is to be noted that ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is set to begin from February 19, with the final set to be played on March 9.
With Geoff Allardice bidding adieu from ICC, the apex cricketing body will now begin the process to identify his successor. Speaking on the occasion, ICC Chairman, Jay Shah stated, “On behalf of the ICC Board, I want to sincerely thank Geoff for his leadership and commitment during his tenure as Chief Executive. His efforts have played a key role in advancing cricket globally. We are truly grateful for his service and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”
