The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reached an agreement to host the 2025 Champions Trophy in a hybrid model, allowing India to play its matches in Dubai while the remaining games are held in Pakistan. This decision was finalized during an informal meeting at the ICC headquarters in Dubai on Thursday, attended by ICC President Jay Shah and board members, including representatives from Pakistan, according to a top ICC source.
Hybrid Model for Global Events Until 2027
The ICC’s hybrid arrangement extends beyond the Champions Trophy, with an agreement in principle to adopt a similar model for all ICC multi-nation tournaments until 2027, the ICC source informed PTI. The decision facilitates India’s participation in tournaments hosted by Pakistan or involving Pakistan in future global events.
All parties have agreed in principle that the 2025 Champions Trophy will follow a hybrid model, ensuring India’s matches are hosted in Dubai. This decision benefits all stakeholders, an ICC source said.
The Champions Trophy is slated for February-March 2025. Pakistan, which had previously threatened to boycott ICC events if its demands for a hybrid model weren’t met, welcomed the arrangement. However, the PCB’s demand for additional compensation is reportedly under review.
Impact on Upcoming ICC Events
The hybrid model will also apply to the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s matches for that tournament will be played in Sri Lanka. Additionally, if India and Pakistan face off in the Women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled for October 2024 in India, their match will be held at a neutral venue.
This resolution has paved the way for the much-anticipated release of the Champions Trophy schedule, which has been delayed due to prolonged negotiations. Star Sports, the tournament’s broadcaster, was in Dubai for discussions on scheduling and operational logistics.
India has not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, and bilateral ties remain strained. India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan has been attributed to security concerns, a stance supported by the ICC, which respects government travel advisories.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi remarked on the agreement, emphasizing the importance of cricket’s progress. “Cricket should win, that’s most important. The arrangement ensures respect for all and equal terms,” he stated.
The agreement has been hailed as a diplomatic success, ensuring India-Pakistan matches remain a highlight of global cricketing events while addressing logistical and security concerns. Fans and broadcasters eagerly await the release of the Champions Trophy schedule, marking the start of preparations for the prestigious tournament.
(With PTI inputs)