Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has agreed to stage the 2025 Champions Trophy using a hybrid model, with India playing all its matches in Dubai. Additionally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has accepted the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) demand to apply the hybrid model for all ICC tournaments hosted in India until 2027.
According to PTI, the decision was finalized during an informal meeting at ICC headquarters in Dubai, chaired by ICC’s newest chairman, Jay Shah, with representatives from all member boards, including Pakistan.
“It’s been agreed in principle by all parties that the 2025 Champions Trophy will be held in the UAE and Pakistan, with India playing its matches in Dubai. It’s a win-win situation for all stakeholders,” an ICC source told PTI, according to MSN.
After months of negotiations and withdrawing its boycott threat, the PCB reportedly agreed to the hybrid model to avoid losing its hosting rights. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated, “Cricket should win, that’s most important, but with respect for all. We are going to do what’s best for cricket. Whichever formula we go for, it would be on equal terms.”
In return, PCB requested that the hybrid model be implemented for ICC tournaments in India until 2031. The ICC has agreed to this demand for tournaments up to 2027.
During this period, India will host two ICC tournaments. In the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted with Sri Lanka, Pakistan will play all their matches in Sri Lanka. For the 2025 Women’s World Cup, Pakistan’s matches will be held in a neutral venue.
“During the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan will play its matches in Sri Lanka. The compensation demanded by PCB for the Champions Trophy hybrid model is still under consideration,” added the ICC source.
The delay in resolving the hybrid model issue caused a significant postponement in the announcement of the Champions Trophy schedule, which, per broadcaster contracts, was due 90 days in advance. With the matter now resolved, the schedule is expected to be released soon.
Representatives from Star Sports, the tournament’s broadcaster, were in Dubai to discuss operational details of the hybrid model with Jay Shah. However, that meeting was postponed to Saturday, sources said.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
