Champions Trophy In Hybrid Model, Decision Finalized
After long discussions and differences, the Indian Cricket Council (ICC) reached a consensus on Thursday to stage the 2025 Champions Trophy in a hybrid model. Thus India will play all its matches in Dubai.
As per the NDTV report, the decision was finalized during an informal meeting between the body’s new President Jay Shah, and the Board of Directors, including Pakistan, at its headquarters on Thursday. “It’s been agreed in principle by all parties that the 2025 Champions Trophy will be held in the UAE and Pakistan with India playing its matches in Dubai. It’s a win-win situation for all stakeholders,” the ICC source told PTI.
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The Champions Trophy is to be held in February-March next year. Pakistan, as of now, has withdrawn its boycott threat and agreed to go for the hybrid mode. They have also demanded a reciprocal arrangement for itself till 2031 as well.
ICC has also agreed to a hybrid mode for all its events till 2027. “Cricket should win, that’s most important, but with respect for all. We are going to do what’s best for cricket. Whichever formula we go for, it would be on equal terms,” Pakistan Cricket Board head Mohsin Naqvi had stated after the last ICC meet.
During this period, India will host two ICC tournaments. They will co-host the T20 World Cup with Sri Lanka in 2026, that is Pakistan will play all their matches in the island country. “During the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan will play its matches in Sri Lanka. The compensation demanded by PCB for the Champions Trophy hybrid model is still under consideration,” the source said.
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The chaos surrounding the hybrid model had created a considerable delay in announcing the schedule of the Champions Trophy. As per the contract between ICC and the headquarters, the schedule has to be announced at least 90 days in advance, however, the deadline has already been breached. As things are sorted out now, the schedule could be expected soon.
