The future of the Champions Trophy 2025 remains uncertain, even as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly agreed to the Board of Control for Cricket in India BCCI’s proposal for a hybrid format for the event. Earlier, the Indian government declined to permit Team India to travel to Pakistan, citing security fears.
While the PCB initially stood resolute in its position to host all Champions Trophy fixtures in Pakistan, reports suggest they ultimately conceded to the BCCI’s hybrid model. Under this model, India will play all its matches in Dubai.
According to various media outlets, the PCB was reportedly prepared to agree if the ICC provided a written assurance that all Pakistan matches in ICC events hosted by India until 2031 would be held at neutral venues, along with an increased share of the annual revenue. However, as the Pakistan Cricket Board reported, the BCCI is “reluctant” to accept the PCB’s proposal.
If the ICC acknowledges PCB’s demands, several key matches, including those featuring Pakistan, may need to be relocated from India to a neutral venue, which is reportedly a significant concern for the Indian cricket board.
“We have presented a fair solution. If India does not accept it, they cannot expect us to send our team there in the future. If an ICC event is held in India, their team would also need to play finals or key matches in Dubai, ensuring parity,” a PCB source quoted.
The ICC is anticipated to release the schedule for the Champions Trophy soon, which is expected to address several key uncertainties surrounding the tournament slated to be held in February and March next year.
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Jasir Basharat is a cricket enthusiast capturing the heart of the game through insightful analysis and storytelling sharing his passion for the sport through engaging narratives. He is a business graduate from University of Kashmir.
