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PCB Rejects ICC's Hybrid Model Proposal for 2025 Champions Trophy
The PCB rejects ICC’s hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy, insisting the tournament be fully hosted in Pakistan, regardless of India's participation.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-29
PCB Rejects ICC's Hybrid Model Proposal for 2025 Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a firm stance against the International Cricket Council's (ICC) proposal for a hybrid model for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The hybrid model would see matches involving India held outside Pakistan, with the possibility of the semi-finals and final being played in a neutral venue if India qualifies. This proposal comes in the wake of India's refusal to travel to Pakistan to participate in the event scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

 

The ICC's decision to convene an online meeting on Friday to finalize the Champions Trophy schedule follows India’s refusal to participate, which delayed the announcement of the tournament's dates, initially expected by November 20. The PCB, in close communication with the ICC, has made it clear that it will not accept a hybrid model and insists on hosting the entire tournament in Pakistan, irrespective of whether India decides to come or not.

 

A PCB official stated, “We have informed the ICC not to present any hybrid model, as the government has refused to accept it. If the ICC presents an alternative solution, we will consult the government for further direction.” This decision comes after months of negotiations between the PCB and ICC, with the latter concerned about potential financial losses if India were absent.

 

The PCB’s position is bolstered by its belief that the ICC should provide a written explanation from the Indian government on why it has instructed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to refrain from visiting Pakistan. Despite several attempts by the PCB to have this request fulfilled, the ICC has yet to provide any concrete response.

 

Should the ICC decide to move the Champions Trophy out of Pakistan or proceed with a hybrid model, the PCB has hinted at possible alternatives, including a boycott of the event. The official also pointed out that the ICC had previously shifted the location of the 2009 T20 World Cup after the UK refused visas to Zimbabwe’s team, suggesting that a similar solution could be found if India opts out.

 

The PCB’s decision to not compromise on its hosting rights also comes with significant financial implications. Hosting the Champions Trophy will bring in substantial revenue, including a $6 million hosting fee, though the PCB is keenly aware of the broader economic impact. If the event is moved or delayed, the financial losses would be shared across all participating teams, with India, the largest stakeholder in the ICC's revenue distribution, likely facing the biggest blow.

 

In the midst of these developments, the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan, Muhammad Ruhul Alam Siddique, expressed his best wishes for Pakistan’s efforts to successfully host the Champions Trophy. During his meeting with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the Bangladeshi envoy praised Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure and bilateral relations, reinforcing support for the event.

 

As the ICC prepares to make its final decision, the ongoing dispute underscores the broader geopolitical tensions affecting international cricket, with the 2025 Champions Trophy now serving as the latest flashpoint in the strained relationship between Pakistan and India.
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