The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to hold its 76th Board of Governors (BoG) meeting in Islamabad on December 18 to review the hybrid model for the February 2025 Champions Trophy, which Pakistan will host.
According to a reliable source cited by The News, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi will brief the BoG members on the hybrid arrangement finalized with stakeholders for the tournament. Under the agreed model, Pakistan retains hosting rights, but all matches involving India will take place at a neutral venue in Dubai. Even if Pakistan faces India in the final, the match will also be staged in Dubai.
“All the details on the agreed-upon model will be shared with the BoG members. ICC and some leading cricketing boards have given a guarantee that Pakistan will not be asked to play the 2026 World Cup matches in India as all their matches including the semifinals will be organised in Sri Lanka — the joint hosts of the mega event,” the source revealed.
There are conflicting reports about the final venue for the 2026 T20 World Cup in case Pakistan qualifies for the title match. Additionally, the PCB will discuss the lack of compensation for hosting India’s Champions Trophy matches at a neutral venue.
The BoG will also receive updates on renovation progress at Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium, as well as PCB’s plans to host a tri-series at the two venues.“By all means the stadium up-gradation will be completed by January 15,” the source added.
Another key topic for discussion will be the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which is expected to take place in April-May 2025. The BoG is likely to finalize dates and other related arrangements for the tournament.
Additional agenda items include plans to upgrade first-class cricket venues.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
