In a potential breakthrough for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed using a hybrid hosting model. However, the PCB insists this model must be reciprocated for any global events hosted in India.
The PCB made this offer during meetings with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Dubai. This proposal seeks a fair, long-term agreement that extends beyond the 2025 Champions Trophy and guarantees Pakistan the same rights when global tournaments are hosted in India.
India’s Upcoming Global Cricket Events
India is set to host three major ICC men’s tournaments:
- 2026 T20 World Cup (co-hosted with Sri Lanka)
- 2029 Champions Trophy
- 2031 ODI World Cup (co-hosted with Bangladesh)
Additionally, India will host the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup and the Asia Cup 2025, further complicating the India-Pakistan cricket dynamic.
PCB Chair’s Stand on Equality
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that Pakistan seeks respect and equality in any decision. He stated:
“A one-sided arrangement is no longer acceptable. If we agree to any changes, they must be based on equality. Pakistan’s respect comes first.”
Despite PCB’s offer, the BCCI has not indicated whether it is open to the same hybrid model for tournaments it hosts.
ICC’s Decision Pending
The ICC Board will review PCB’s proposal during its next meeting, scheduled for December 5, chaired by newly appointed ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who is also the BCCI secretary. Both the PCB and BCCI need their respective government approvals before any final decision.
Three Possible Outcomes for the Champions Trophy
The tournament’s fate could follow one of these paths:
- Hybrid Model: India plays its matches outside Pakistan.
- Neutral Venue: The entire tournament moves to a different country.
- India’s Withdrawal: The tournament proceeds without India.
Security Concerns Raised by India
India’s Ministry of External Affairs recently cited security concerns, stating that the Indian team would not be able to travel to Pakistan. However, the PCB claims it has yet to receive an official explanation from the BCCI.
ICC Faces Time Pressure
With just 77 days left before the Champions Trophy’s scheduled start, the ICC is under pressure. The tournament schedule is yet to be released, and ticketing processes remain on hold, leaving fans unable to plan travel.
Final Thoughts
The PCB’s hybrid model proposal could mark a turning point in resolving the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan over hosting cricket tournaments. However, with the clock ticking, the ICC must make a decision soon to avoid further complications.
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