ICC’s Crucial Meeting: Three Options on the Table
The ICC Board will meet on Friday to determine the venue and format for the 2025 Champions Trophy, with just three months left before the tournament’s scheduled start. Three primary options are being considered:
- Hybrid Model: Most matches in Pakistan, while India’s matches are played at a neutral venue.
- Complete Relocation: Move the entire tournament outside Pakistan while allowing the PCB to retain hosting rights.
- Full Tournament in Pakistan: Host all matches in Pakistan, excluding India due to political tensions.
However, the first option—hybrid hosting—seems less likely, with the PCB reiterating to the ICC that it is no longer an option.
PCB’s Stance on the Hybrid Model
On Thursday, a PCB official confirmed that the hybrid model is “off the table” unless the ICC proposes a fair alternative for Pakistan. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hinted that any ICC decision would be taken to the Pakistani government for final approval. Naqvi also emphasized Pakistan’s reluctance to play in India unless reciprocity is considered for future tournaments in India.
Impact on Future India-Pakistan Matches
Naqvi’s comments highlight a recurring issue: Pakistan’s government has not permitted travel to India for cricket. With India set to host multiple ICC events—including the 2025 Asia Cup, 2026 T20 World Cup, and 2029 Champions Trophy—this issue is expected to resurface. Pakistan may push for a hybrid model for future India-hosted events.
Commercial Concerns and Financial Implications
The financial stakes are high. Matches between India and Pakistan are among the most commercially valuable in the cricket world. If the two teams do not face each other, it could significantly affect the tournament’s revenue. However, Naqvi dismissed speculation that the PCB would seek additional compensation, stating, “We’ll never sell our hosting rights just for money.”
Time Pressure and Venue Readiness
With time running out, the ICC must decide quickly. Pakistan’s Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Stadium in Karachi are undergoing renovations to be tournament-ready by the end of the year. An alternative venue or schedule could complicate logistics further.
Historical Context: Pakistan’s Hosting Rights
Pakistan secured hosting rights for the Champions Trophy in November 2021, marking the first ICC event it would host since the 1996 World Cup. However, relations with India have strained since the Mumbai attacks in 2008. India has not toured Pakistan since then, though Pakistan has traveled to India for major tournaments, most recently the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Final Thoughts
The ICC faces a tough decision regarding the 2025 Champions Trophy. Whether through a hybrid model, relocation, or a complete tournament in Pakistan without India, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for cricket’s biggest rivalry and future ICC events.
FAQs
Q1: Why is the ICC considering a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025?
A: The hybrid model allows Pakistan to retain hosting rights while accommodating India’s political restrictions on traveling to Pakistan by playing their matches at a neutral venue.
Q2: Will Pakistan play against India in the Champions Trophy 2025?
A: It’s uncertain. If a hybrid model is adopted or the event is relocated, they could meet at a neutral venue. Otherwise, the match may not happen due to political tensions.
Q3: What are the financial implications if India does not participate in Pakistan-hosted matches?
A: An India-Pakistan match generates significant revenue. Without it, the tournament could suffer a substantial financial loss.
Q4: Is Pakistan ready to host the Champions Trophy 2025?
A: Pakistan is renovating key venues like Gaddafi Stadium and National Stadium to ensure readiness by the end of the year.
