LAHORE – Pakistan Cricket Board reportedly agreed to host ICC Champions Trophy 2025 under Hybrid model as the Indian team refused to come the host nation amid political tensions.
Reports in local media said the flagship tournament will feature unique hybrid hosting model, with Pakistan hosting most matches while games of Indian team will be played in UAE due to political and security concerns.
The final will be held in Lahore, but only if India does not qualify. This model was created after extensive negotiations to address geopolitical tensions between the two countries, ensuring Men in Blue’s participation without requiring their team to travel to Pakistan.
The agreement also includes favorable revenue-sharing terms for Pakistan and a provision for future ICC tournaments hosted by India to be played at neutral venues for Pakistan.
International Cricket Council (ICC) made significant progress in resolving the ongoing dispute between Pakistan and India over the hosting of the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy. Pakistan is scheduled to host the event from February 19 to March 9. However, political tensions between the two countries have caused complications, with India refusing to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.
India has not visited Pakistan for a bilateral series for last 1.5 decades, and their matches have been limited to multi-nation tournaments, such as the 2023 Asia Cup, where all games were played in Sri Lanka under a “hybrid model.”
In early December, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially confirmed that India would not participate in the Champions In response, the ICC has reportedly presented a “formula for an acceptable solution” to both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and BCCI. While a breakthrough in the negotiations is expected soon, the tournament’s schedule will be finalized once both boards receive government approval.
PCB and BCCI requested additional time for consultations with their respective governments, with an ICC board meeting scheduled for Sunday or Monday to address the matter.
Moshin Naqvi led PCB first rejected hybrid model and reiterated that it will not agree to a neutral venue without substantial justification. The PCB has made it clear that it would not participate in the tournament if it is moved to a neutral location and has emphasized its commitment to hosting the event in Pakistan. If no resolution is reached, a vote may be conducted at the ICC meeting to determine the next steps.
ICC board meeting to decide fate of Champions Trophy 2025 today
