ICC Approves Hybrid Model for 2025 Champions Trophy; India to Play Matches in Dubai : Reports

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly finalized a hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy, allowing India to play its matches in Dubai while the rest of the tournament will take place in Pakistan. This decision, made during an informal meeting chaired by ICC President Jay Shah in Dubai on Thursday, is aimed at resolving the long-standing impasse between India and Pakistan regarding bilateral tours.

Key Highlights:

• The Champions Trophy, scheduled for February-March 2025, will adopt a hybrid format with matches split between Pakistan and the UAE. India, citing security concerns, will not travel to Pakistan but will play its matches in Dubai.
• The ICC has agreed to extend the hybrid model for all multi-nation events until 2027. This includes India hosting the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup alongside Sri Lanka and the Women’s ODI World Cup in October this year.
• During the 2026 T20 World Cup, Pakistan will play its matches in Sri Lanka, circumventing any need to travel to India.

An ICC source revealed, “It’s been agreed in principle that the Champions Trophy will be held in the UAE and Pakistan, with India playing its matches in Dubai. This arrangement is a balanced solution for all stakeholders.”

Pakistan’s Demand for Reciprocity

Pakistan had previously threatened to boycott ICC events if their concerns over hosting rights and hybrid models were not addressed. At an earlier ICC meeting, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requested reciprocal arrangements for future tournaments through 2031. However, the current agreement only extends hybrid models until 2027. Discussions about financial compensation for Pakistan's concessions are reportedly ongoing.

Implications for Upcoming ICC Events

• If the schedule requires, the Indian women’s team may play Pakistan at a neutral venue during the Women’s ODI World Cup later this year.
• This decision paves the way for the long-delayed release of the Champions Trophy schedule, which broadcasters like Star Sports have been awaiting. ICC's contractual obligation to provide the schedule at least 90 days in advance has already been breached.

Historical Context

India has not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, citing security concerns. The two nations have only faced each other in ICC and ACC events since their last bilateral engagement in 2012.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed optimism after the ICC meeting, stating, “Cricket should win, with respect for all. We aim for solutions that are fair and equitable for everyone.”

The hybrid model, while a compromise, reflects the growing complexities of geopolitics in international cricket, ensuring that the sport continues to flourish amidst political tensions.