Pakistan Set to Accept Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy 2025 with Conditions

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed willingness to agree to a hybrid hosting model for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as per recent reports. The decision comes in light of India’s refusal to play in Pakistan due to security concerns. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) has yet to make an official statement, reports suggest the PCB has proposed three key conditions for their agreement.

Conditions Proposed by PCB:

1. Indian Matches in Dubai: All matches involving the Indian cricket team, including group stage, semi-final, and final (if India qualifies), will be held in Dubai.
2. Semi-Final and Final Hosting: If India fails to progress beyond the group stages, Pakistan will host the semi-final and final matches in Lahore.
3. Neutral Venues for Pakistan in Future ICC Events: Should India host any ICC events in the future, Pakistan’s matches will be conducted at neutral venues.

Key Discussions in Dubai

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently met Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) head Mubashir Usmani in Dubai to discuss the hybrid model. During the meeting, Naqvi assured Usmani that Pakistan is fully prepared to host the event, with all necessary arrangements and stadium construction progressing on schedule. He also emphasized that state-level security would be provided to all participating teams.

Naqvi reiterated that the security situation in Pakistan is stable, and cricket fans in the country are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to watch top international players compete in the tournament.

While further announcements from the ICC are awaited, this hybrid hosting model is seen as a potential resolution to the impasse, ensuring that the Champions Trophy 2025 proceeds as planned.