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Pakistan and India Agree on Hybrid Model for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Breakthrough achieved! Pakistan and India agree on a hybrid model for ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India’s matches to be played at neutral venues, with Pakistan ready to host the tournament.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-19
Pakistan and India Agree on Hybrid Model for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan and India have resolved their prolonged impasse over the venue for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, opting for a hybrid hosting model, ESPNcricinfo reported on Thursday.

The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, had been mired in controversy due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) refusal to send its team to Pakistan over political and security concerns. However, after negotiations, both nations reached a compromise under which India’s matches will be played at a neutral venue, with Pakistan hosting the remaining fixtures.

Neutral Venue Arrangements for Upcoming Tournaments

The hybrid model will also apply to future ICC events involving Pakistan and India. The agreement specifies that:

  • India’s matches during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan will be played at a neutral venue.
  • Similarly, Pakistan’s matches scheduled in India for ICC events until 2027 will also be held at neutral venues.
  • This arrangement extends to the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup and the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup.

The neutral venue will be proposed by the tournament’s host board and approved by the ICC.

PCB Prepared for Champions Trophy 2025

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed confidence in Pakistan’s preparations for hosting the Champions Trophy. During the 76th meeting of the PCB Board of Governors in Islamabad, Naqvi stated that renovations and upgrades to stadiums were on track to meet international standards.

“From day one, our focus has been on ensuring success for Pakistan and cricket,” Naqvi emphasized. “The people of Pakistan are eager to see international teams playing on our home grounds. Cricket is a sport loved by millions, and we believe it should remain free from politics.”

Reactions from Former Cricketers

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram described the agreement as the “best solution,” though he lamented the absence of India’s full participation in Pakistan.

“It’s not a win for any country, but I am saddened that millions of young Pakistani fans will miss the chance to see Indian stars like Kohli and Rohit play here,” Akram told AFP.

Retired pacer Mohammad Amir echoed the sentiment, expressing disappointment over the missed opportunity to host Indian players in Pakistan. “Indian players would have been overwhelmed by the welcome in Pakistan,” Amir said, reflecting on the warm reception Pakistani players received in India during the 2016 T20 World Cup.

Cricket Amid Political Tensions

The hybrid hosting model is reminiscent of the arrangement made for the 2023 Asia Cup, where India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka due to similar political tensions. Despite these challenges, Pakistan has demonstrated its commitment to hosting international tournaments, earning praise for its efforts.

The Champions Trophy will feature top teams, including Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand, alongside hosts Pakistan and neutral venue arrangements for India’s matches.

As Pakistan prepares to defend its 2017 Champions Trophy title, cricket fans worldwide await an exciting tournament that promises to showcase the spirit of the game despite regional tensions.
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