The International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) during a board meeting on November 19 that a hybrid hosting model is the only viable solution for the Champions Trophy 2025, following India’s refusal to grant its team permission to travel to Pakistan.
Despite the PCB’s insistence on hosting all matches in Pakistan, the ICC clarified that this arrangement is not feasible. The PCB has requested a day to consult with its government, and further discussions are scheduled for November 30. Sources suggest the PCB may ultimately accept the hybrid model after consultations.
Potential Outcomes:
- Acceptance of the Hybrid Model: India’s matches, one semi-final, and the final would be held in Dubai, while the remaining matches would take place in Pakistan. PCB retains partial hosting rights.
- Rejection of the Hybrid Model: If Pakistan remains firm, the ICC could revoke its hosting rights, awarding the tournament to another country. This could lead to Pakistan boycotting the event.
The meeting, attended by ICC members virtually, failed to reach a consensus. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s stance against the hybrid model, stating, “Pakistan will not agree.”
Pakistan secured hosting rights for the Champions Trophy in 2021 and has been renovating its stadiums. However, recent political protests in Islamabad, which led to Sri Lanka A cutting short their tour, have raised security concerns.
Also Read: PCB Rejects Hybrid Model For Champions Trophy; ICC To Discuss Further On Saturday
Pakistan had previously hosted the 2023 Asia Cup under a hybrid model, accommodating India’s refusal to play on Pakistani soil. India and Pakistan last played bilateral cricket in the 2012-13 season, with India last visiting Pakistan during the 2008 Asia Cup.
The Champions Trophy, featuring the top eight ODI teams, is slated to return after Pakistan’s 2017 victory against India in the final at The Oval, London.
