India and Pakistan Reach Agreement on Hybrid Model for 2025 ICC Champions Trophy
The long-standing dispute between India and Pakistan over the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is nearing resolution, as both nations have agreed to play their matches at neutral venues during ICC tournaments hosted by either Pakistan or India, according to sources and reports on Thursday.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) proposed a “fusion formula” for a hybrid model, suggesting that India’s matches during Pakistan-hosted ICC events be played at a neutral venue. In return, Pakistan requested the same arrangement for ICC events hosted in India. After extensive discussions, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly accepted the proposal.
Also Read: Pakistan Firm on Its Stance for Champions Trophy Resolution
A breakthrough came late Thursday evening, following a postponed afternoon meeting due to the BCCI’s delayed response. Sources confirmed that the BCCI had agreed to the hybrid model in principle.
As per India’s PTI news agency, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will now be co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, with India’s matches taking place in Dubai. This agreement is expected to extend to all ICC events until 2027, which includes India hosting the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2024 and the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, alongside Sri Lanka. Pakistan has demanded a similar hybrid arrangement for these events.
Despite the progress, the PCB is seeking written guarantees from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to ensure the implementation of the hybrid model. A source close to the negotiations stated, “The PCB wants assurance from the ICC, not just the BCCI, that the hybrid model will be smoothly executed without complications. It must be documented in the host agreement.”
In addition, the PCB has suggested organizing a tri-series between India and Pakistan at neutral venues, with England and Australia among the proposed locations. While the BCCI has not formally responded to this idea, it is still under consideration.
A final agreement is expected within the next 48 hours, with the ICC Board meeting scheduled for December 7. The arrangement will require formal approval and must be included in host agreements to ensure it is binding for all ICC member boards.
