A Breakthrough in the 2025 Champions Trophy Talks
The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are reportedly making progress toward adopting a hybrid hosting model for the 2025 Champions Trophy and other ICC tournaments scheduled in India or Pakistan until 2027. This model would allow matches between the two nations to be played at neutral venues, breaking the stalemate caused by political tensions.
This agreement, which is still under discussion, could mark a turning point for hosting global cricket events in the region. While the PCB has not yet officially commented on the development, sources close to the discussions have confirmed significant progress.
What Is the Hybrid Model?
The hybrid model aims to ensure that cricket matches between India and Pakistan in ICC tournaments hosted by either country are played at neutral venues.
Upcoming ICC Events Affected
- 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan
- Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in India
- Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka
Key Conditions from PCB
- The hybrid model must apply to all ICC events hosted in India and Pakistan until at least 2027.
- Compensation for potential revenue loss from India’s matches being shifted to neutral venues.
Neutral venues such as the UAE and Sri Lanka are currently under consideration for hosting India’s games, especially knockout matches like semi-finals or finals.
Compensation and Financial Adjustments
To offset potential financial losses, the PCB has proposed organizing a tri-nation series involving India, Pakistan, and a third country. This initiative could help balance revenue losses due to the relocation of marquee matches.
Tentative Start Date for the Champions Trophy
The PCB had initially proposed February 19, 2025, as the start date for the Champions Trophy, with Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi as host cities. However, delays caused by the unresolved venue issues have prevented the ICC from finalizing the tournament schedule.
ICC’s New Leadership and Vision
The ICC’s new chairman, Jay Shah, who took over in December 2024, has promised a “new era” for global cricket. Shah is focusing on collaborative efforts to elevate the sport to unprecedented levels of success.
Shah, the youngest ICC chair at 36, emphasized the importance of developing a roadmap with member countries to shape cricket’s future. He has been a pivotal figure in cricket administration, having previously held influential positions within the ICC, including heading the Finance & Commercial Affairs Committee.
What’s Next?
The final decision on the hybrid hosting model and related matters is expected to be taken during the ICC Board meeting on December 7, 2024. The outcome will significantly impact how ICC events in the region are hosted and managed in the coming years.