As per reports, Disney Star is considering submitting a proposal to ICC to convert the Champions Trophy format to T20. The upcoming Champions Trophy will be in 2025.
ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY T20?
With a new viewing record for the ICC Cricket World Cup, the 50-over format is gaining even more popularity. Although the 50-over format gains new viewing records, it is becoming less common. Even in countries such as India, non-Indian matches have failed to attract large audiences. The following situation has led Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the ICC, to switch from 50-overs to T20 format. Therefore, Disney Star is considering submitting a proposal to ICC to convert the Champions Trophy format to T20.
The ICC Champions Trophy, an eight-team tournament, will be back in 2025 after an eight-year pause. While the ICC is pushing for an annual tournament, as per The Guardian, Star Sports has already planned a 20-over CT for 2025. As per the reports, Disney Star is considering submitting a proposal to ICC to convert the format of the tournament to T20. Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the ICC, is switching from 50-overs to T20 format as the latter is gaining more popularity. Disney Star will spend USD 3 billion between 2023 and 2027. However, as per Disney Star representative, they haven’t submitted a formal request to the ICC yet.
Eight teams participating in the ICC Champions Trophy will be too much T20 cricket when World Cups are still being held every two years. 2024, 2026, and 2028 will see a T20 World Cup. However, it’s also true that the 50-over format is losing its appeal. Cricket World Cup 2023 venues that are just partially fully have provided sufficient proof. The ODI World Cup will take in 2027, and the ICC could be interested in extending the format to keep it alive.
