The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly open to adopting a hybrid model for hosting the Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian media has claimed.
This decision comes after India's refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns, with media reports indicating that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has been pushing Pakistan for hosting through the hybrid model.
While no official announcement has been made by either the ICC or PCB, the report suggests that India would play their matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, the PCB has outlined three conditions for agreeing to this arrangement:
- Matches involving the Indian cricket team, including group stage fixtures, the semi-final, and the final (if India qualifies), must be played in Dubai.
- If India fails to advance beyond the group stage, Lahore will host the semi-final and final.
- In future ICC events hosted by India, Pakistan's matches must be held at neutral venues.
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PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently met with Emirates Cricket Board head Mubashir Usmani in Dubai to discuss the proposed hybrid model for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February next year.
Naqvi assured Usmani that Pakistan is fully prepared to host the tournament, with all arrangements progressing on schedule.
Naqvi emphasized that Pakistan's security situation is stable and pledged state-level security for all participating teams. He also noted that the construction work at stadiums designated for the event is on track. The PCB remains optimistic about hosting the Champions Trophy and is eager to welcome top teams and players to Pakistan.
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The PCB chief welcomed all the teams warmly, saying, "The cricket and politics must remain separate."
The meeting also reviewed the progress on stadium upgrade projects as part of preparations for the tournament. Naqvi affirmed Pakistan’s readiness for the highly-anticipated tournament.
Usmani, who also chairs the ICC's Associate Members' Committee, expressed his commitment to ensuring the smooth organization of the event.
