Champions Trophy 2025: PCB wants written assurance from ICC for Hybrid Model of Future Tournaments

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The future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is in jeopardy due to the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) persistent demands and reluctance to accept the ground realities of hosting a major international event.

The tournament, scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, faces uncertainty as the PCB continues to insist on written assurances from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding a hybrid hosting model for future global tournaments.

As the designated hosts for the Champions Trophy, the PCB has reportedly demanded that the ICC provide a written guarantee for implementing a hybrid model in upcoming tournaments. This comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) firmly communicated that the Indian team would not travel to Pakistan, citing the Indian government's clear policy on cross-border relations.

Amid the stalemate, the PCB has reluctantly agreed to a hybrid model for this edition, allowing India to play their matches in the UAE while other games will be held in Pakistan. The semifinals and finals, if India qualifies, are also slated to be held in the UAE. However, Pakistan has attached conditions for future tournaments, delaying a resolution to the current crisis.

"Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) wants a written assurance from ICC regarding a hybrid model for the future international events to be hosted by India. Decision on Champions Trophy most likely by Wednesday," sources told IANS.

India's stance is straightforward and rooted in governmental policy. Given the strained political ties and unresolved security concerns with Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the Indian government has maintained a consistent policy of not allowing its national teams to compete across the border. The BCCI has acted in alignment with this directive, prioritizing the safety and security of Indian players.

It is to be seen if BCCI agrees to PCB's demands. As per reports, the Indian board may not agree with the Hybrid Model as there are no security threats in India. Hence PCB may have to eat another humble pie and move forward with the current arrangement.