ICC plans to scrap Champions Trophy Event

Pakistan may not get a chance to defend their Champions Trophy title with the International Cricket Council (ICC) debating the prospect of replacing the tournament with two expanded World Twenty20 events over a four-year cycle.

The next edition of the Champions Trophy -- if it does take place is scheduled to be held in India in 2021. But the increasing popularity of the shortest format of the game has thrown its future into doubt.

"It's always been quite difficult to distinguish or differentiate between the two 50-over global events. With the World Cup becoming a ten-team event, it's almost like the World Cup is becoming more like the Champions Trophy, which I think is a good thing," ICC CEO David Richardson was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on Wednesday.

"I think it (World Cup) will still be a longer event. The World Cup



format will allow the best chance for the best four teams to get into the semi-finals. So it takes away the risk of maybe a rain-affected game or one poor game having a huge impact on the tournament like it can be in this tournament (Champions Trophy). But still, highly competitive matches hopefully," he added.

"And then, whether the Champions Trophy in 2021 stays a Champions Trophy, or we move to two World T20s -- that still needs to be discussed and settled. It's a possibility, yes. I wouldn't say it is categorically going to happen because, as we've seen, the Champions Trophy on its own is a very good event and very well-supported, particularly in the UK, where you get support for all teams. So let's not be too hasty in writing it off, but to be honest and frank, there is a consideration for moving towards two World T20s in a four-year cycle."