The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering a hybrid hosting arrangement for the 2025 Champions Trophy, responding to input from the International Cricket Council (ICC). According to sources, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has outlined certain conditions to maintain Pakistan’s hosting rights while addressing local issues.
The ICC has indicated to the PCB that a hybrid model is the only feasible approach for hosting the Champions Trophy next year. This development was shared during an ICC Board meeting held on November 29, following the Indian government’s refusal to allow its team to travel to Pakistan.
Under the proposed hybrid model, Pakistan would retain partial hosting rights for the tournament. A virtual meeting included representatives from 12 full ICC members and three associate members, but no agreement was reached during the discussion. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi participated from Dubai. Pakistan had previously been awarded hosting rights for the event in November 2021, and earlier this year, the PCB began upgrades on three stadiums in preparation.
The PCB’s acceptance of this hybrid model includes key stipulations:
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India’s Matches in Dubai: All matches involving the Indian cricket team, including the group stages, semi-finals, and final (if they qualify), will take place in Dubai, as the Indian government will not permit its team to travel to Pakistan.
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Backup Hosting in Lahore: Should India not progress beyond the group stages, Pakistan will have the right to host the semi-finals and finals in Lahore.
- Neutral Venues for ICC Tournaments: The PCB has requested that if India hosts future ICC events, matches involving Pakistan should be played at neutral sites.
The PCB initially insisted on exclusive hosting rights but faced pushback due to security apprehensions from India. After extensive discussions, the ICC suggested this hybrid model as a potential compromise. While the recent ICC board meeting concluded without a clear consensus, the PCB’s likely agreement opens the door to a resolution.
This hybrid model ensures that Pakistan retains a significant role in hosting the tournament, with matches involving India scheduled in Dubai to ensure a smooth event despite ongoing diplomatic tensions. However, financial aspects, including ticket revenue from Dubai matches, will be managed by the Emirates Cricket Board, leaving Pakistan out of any revenue-sharing agreement.
