The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is most likely to accept the hybrid model for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
This decision comes in response to ongoing discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), particularly regarding India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.
Background on the Hybrid Model
The hybrid model proposes that matches involving the Indian cricket team will be held in neutral venues, specifically in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while other matches will take place in Pakistan.
This arrangement aims to address the security apprehensions expressed by India while allowing Pakistan to retain some hosting rights for the tournament scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the board is willing to accept this model but has laid down specific conditions to ensure Pakistan’s interests are safeguarded.
The PCB’s acceptance is seen as a necessary compromise given the ICC’s ultimatum: accept the hybrid model or risk exclusion from the tournament altogether.
Conditions Set by PCB
- Indian Matches in Dubai: All matches involving India, including group stage matches, semi-finals, and potentially the final, will be hosted in Dubai. This ensures that India can participate without traveling to Pakistan.
- Finals Hosting Rights: If India does not progress beyond the group stages, Pakistan will host the semi-finals and finals in Lahore. This condition allows Pakistan to maintain a significant role in hosting key matches.
- Future ICC Events: The PCB has requested that if India hosts any future ICC events, Pakistan’s matches should be played at neutral venues. This condition aims to ensure fairness in hosting arrangements moving forward.
Implications for PCB and ICC
The PCB’s acceptance of the hybrid model represents a strategic move to preserve its hosting rights while navigating complex diplomatic and security issues.
It also highlights the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan regarding cricketing relations. The ICC is expected to address these conditions in upcoming meetings, with a resolution anticipated soon.
The decision is crucial not only for the Champions Trophy but also for future international tournaments involving both nations.
The hybrid model could set a precedent for how cricketing events are managed between countries with strained relations.
