The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed to adopt a hybrid model for hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 but has emphasized the need for similar provisions when global ICC events are held in India.
As reported by ESPNCricinfo, PCB proposed this condition during recent meetings with the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Dubai. This ongoing discussion reflects PCB’s demand for equal treatment, requesting that Pakistan’s matches in India-hosted ICC events also follow a hybrid format, allowing their games to take place at neutral venues.
PCB Pushes for Equal Treatment
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stressed the importance of reciprocity, stating, “A one-sided arrangement is no longer acceptable. Both nations must be treated equally under the same rules.” Naqvi clarified that PCB is not seeking a hybrid model solely for the 2025 event but rather a long-term agreement covering future ICC tournaments, potentially extending to 2031. India is scheduled to host several marquee events during this period, including the 2026 T20 World Cup, the 2029 Champions Trophy, and the 2031 ICC Cricket World Cup.
While the BCCI has remained silent on the matter, it is reportedly opposed to a hybrid format for tournaments hosted in India. Additionally, political tensions between the two nations further complicate the situation. India last visited Pakistan in 2008 and has since played against their rival only in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups. Meanwhile, Pakistan has participated in events in India, including the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Awaiting ICC’s Final Decision
The ICC Board is expected to deliberate on PCB’s proposal, with a meeting tentatively scheduled for December 5. Key options include hosting the Champions Trophy under a hybrid model, relocating the event entirely to another country, or proceeding without India’s participation. The final decision will require ratification by the respective governments of both nations.
Naqvi reiterated that fair play and equality must guide future agreements. However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has previously cited “security concerns,” suggesting that the Indian team is unlikely to travel to Pakistan. With only 77 days remaining before the tournament’s commencement on February 19, 2025, critical details such as the schedule and ticketing process remain undecided.
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