ICC approves hybrid hosting model for Champions Trophy 2025; India to avoid Pakistan Tour in 2026: Report

ICC Tournaments
By Aditya Bhagchandani

In a landmark decision, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has resolved the prolonged deadlock between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over hosting arrangements for the Champions Trophy 2025. The ICC has approved a hybrid hosting model, allowing matches to be played in both Pakistan and neutral venues, addressing India’s security concerns. This was reported by Vikrant Gupta over twitter.

Hybrid Hosting Model

Under the finalized arrangement:

  • Pakistan will host a portion of the tournament matches.
  • India’s games, including the semi-final and final, will take place at neutral venues.
  • Neutral venues like Colombo have been selected for high-stakes matches, including the India-Pakistan group stage clash for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

No Pakistan Tour for India Until 2026

The agreement includes a significant clause: Pakistan will not tour India for any ICC events over the next three years, including the 2026 T20 World Cup. Matches involving Pakistan in these tournaments will also be played at neutral venues.

Background and Resolution

Initially, Pakistan, as the designated host for the Champions Trophy 2025, was set to organize the entire tournament. However, the BCCI opposed sending the Indian team to Pakistan, citing security concerns, and proposed the hybrid hosting model.

The PCB initially rejected the hybrid model, threatening to withdraw from the tournament. After negotiations, Pakistan agreed to the arrangement with specific conditions, which the ICC has now approved.

Tournament Schedule and Logistics

The Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The ICC will now work to finalize the official schedule, ensuring logistical feasibility for the remaining eight teams.

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