PCB accepts hybrid model for Champions Trophy 2025, asks for reciprocity for ICC events in India

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed to a hybrid model for hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 but has conditioned its acceptance on similar provisions being applied for ICC tournaments held in India, according to media reports.

The PCB’s proposal was reportedly presented during recent meetings with the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Dubai. While the discussions remain ongoing, the PCB is seeking a long-term agreement that would allow Pakistan to play its matches outside India during ICC events. The timeframe for these provisions, whether for the next three years or until the end of the current rights cycle in 2031, is yet to be finalized.

India is slated to host several major men’s and women’s ICC tournaments through 2031, including the 2026 T20 World Cup (co-hosted with Sri Lanka), the 2029 Champions Trophy, and the 2031 Cricket World Cup (with Bangladesh). Additionally, the next Asia Cup in October 2025 is scheduled to take place in India.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need for equality in cricketing relations between India and Pakistan. Speaking to the media, Naqvi stated, “It cannot be the case that we continue to go to India, but they do not visit Pakistan. Whatever happens must be on the basis of equality.”

India has not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, and bilateral cricketing ties have remained limited due to political tensions. India and Pakistan have only faced each other in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups since their last bilateral series in 2012-13.

While the PCB has agreed to the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, it remains firm that similar arrangements should be made for ICC events hosted by India. The BCCI has yet to issue a formal statement on the matter but is reportedly resistant to implementing a hybrid model for its hosted tournaments.

The ICC Board is expected to meet on December 5 to evaluate the PCB’s proposal and make a decision regarding the Champions Trophy. Options under consideration include India playing their matches outside Pakistan, moving the tournament entirely to a neutral venue, or proceeding without India’s participation. Both the PCB and BCCI will need their respective governments’ approval for any final decision.

PCB has also raised concerns over the lack of official communication from India regarding their inability to travel to Pakistan. Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recently reiterated BCCI’s stance citing “security concerns” as the primary reason.

Also See: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule

With just 77 days left before the tournament is scheduled to begin on February 19, key details such as the schedule and ticketing process remain unresolved, leaving fans and organizers in limbo. The eight-team tournament is set to run until March 9, but uncertainty surrounding participation and venue arrangements continues to cloud its preparations.

Adding to the intrigue, Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary, has recently taken over as the ICC Chair, a change that could influence the ongoing discussions. Both cricket boards now await clarity on the hybrid model and its broader implications for future ICC tournaments.