Uncertainty surrounds India’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has reiterated that the safety of players remains the board’s top priority, and discussions about a potential hybrid hosting model are ongoing.
Speaking to the media, Shukla stated, “Our discussions are going on. A decision will be taken after looking at the situation. Our top priority is the safety of the players. Hybrid mode is also an option; discussions are going on.” The hybrid model, if adopted, could see matches split between Pakistan and another neutral venue, similar to the arrangement for the 2023 Asia Cup.
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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to hold a virtual meeting on November 29 to determine whether the tournament will proceed as planned in Pakistan or under a hybrid model. The meeting follows communication from the ICC to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), stating that India would not travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.
The PCB, after consulting with the Pakistan government, is preparing to present its stance during the meeting. The ICC Board will aim to reach a consensus on the hosting arrangements, with the tournament scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 2025.
India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, citing strained political relations and security issues. The two cricketing rivals primarily face off in ICC events and Asia Cups, with no bilateral series since 2012-13. The hybrid hosting model, used successfully for the 2023 Asia Cup, could serve as a compromise, allowing the tournament to proceed while addressing India’s concerns.
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