Cricket Shakeup: ICC May Move 2029 and 2031 Events From India to Australia

Rising political tensions between Pakistan and India have created fresh uncertainty around the hosting of upcoming major cricket tournaments scheduled in India. Amid strained relations between the two neighbours, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly considering relocating some key events, including the 2029 Champions Trophy and the 2031 ODI World Cup, to Australia.

India and Bangladesh were originally named co-hosts of both these major ICC events, with India slated to host the bulk of matches. However ongoing diplomatic tension which recently surfaced during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has prompted cricket administrators to examine contingency plans for alternative venues. Australian cricket venues have emerged as likely candidates because of Australia’s proven record of hosting high-profile ICC competitions.

Background: Cricket and Regional Politics Collide

The current controversy stems partly from the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, where Pakistan initially boycotted its match against India. The boycott was announced in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) after Bangladesh withdrew from its India fixtures on reported security concerns. Pakistan briefly considered withdrawing too but later reversed its decision after high-level consultations involving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the ICC, and neighbouring cricket boards, to avoid potential financial losses and uphold the spirit of the sport.

During the T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan on February 15, 2026, both teams did not exchange the customary handshake at the toss, a symbolic continuation of the rivalry and political tension that has affected bilateral cricket relations for years. More recently, Pakistan and India have not played a bilateral series since 2012–13 because of longstanding political strain and security concerns.

What This Means for Future ICC Events

Relocating events like the 2029 Champions Trophy or 2031 ODI World Cup would be a major shift for the ICC. India currently plays a central role in global cricket logistics, economy, broadcast revenue, and fan engagement. Moving events to Australia could ensure smoother participation from all member nations, especially if geopolitical tensions persist.

Australia has previously hosted significant ICC tournaments, including the 2015 Cricket World Cup and the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, making it a reliable alternative should the ICC council approve the shift. These venues offer world-class infrastructure and a neutral environment for global cricket.

Broader Impact on South Asian Cricket

Neutral hosting arrangements are not unprecedented in cricket. The ICC’s Future Tours Programme allows matches to be scheduled at neutral venues if teams cannot tour due to political or security reasons. This flexibility aims to ensure that international cricket continues without undue disruption, balancing logistical needs with diplomatic sensitivities.

If the ICC’s plans proceed, it would mark a significant departure from traditional scheduling and reinforce how geopolitics continues to shape the sport in South Asia.