Champions Trophy 2025: PCB Seeks Hybrid Model and Written Agreement for ICC Events in India, Unlikely to Happen

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly urging the International Cricket Council (ICC) to secure a written guarantee from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to implement a hybrid model for all future ICC tournaments hosted in India.

According to sources, this demand follows India's refusal to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, citing security concerns. The PCB wants the hybrid model-which involves India playing its matches at a neutral venue, likely Dubai-to be formalized and legally binding for upcoming ICC events in India.

These include the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup, 2026 Men's T20 World Cup, 2029 Champions Trophy, and 2031 Men's ODI World Cup. However, the BCCI is reportedly reluctant to provide a written guarantee for such a model, citing the unpredictability of future bilateral relations between the two nations.

Hybrid Model Debate for 2025 Champions Trophy

The Champions Trophy, scheduled for February-March 2025, has become the focal point of the dispute. While other participating boards are reportedly open to the hybrid model, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has publicly opposed the term, calling for a new formula.

Despite this, backchannel negotiations have reportedly led the PCB to tentatively accept the hybrid arrangement, albeit with conditions. This arrangement would mean India plays its matches in Dubai.

Thus, mirroring the Asia Cup 2023, where Pakistan hosted only four matches, with India's games held in Sri Lanka. However, the PCB has warned that if India refuses to travel to Pakistan, they may not send their team to India for future ICC tournaments.

Challenges for Written Guarantees

Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has expressed skepticism about the PCB's push for written guarantees. "Written agreements between India and Pakistan have not been effective in the past," Akmal noted, referencing prior bilateral series agreements that failed to materialize.

ICC's Dilemma

The ICC faces the daunting task of finding a resolution that satisfies all stakeholders. Moving critical matches or finals involving Pakistan to neutral venues could be a logistical and political challenge. Meanwhile, the Emirates Cricket Board has reportedly stepped in as a mediator.