Dubai: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced that the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy will be conducted using a hybrid model, allowing matches between India and Pakistan to take place at neutral venues. This decision, approved by the ICC Board, is part of a larger agreement covering ICC events planned for 2025 to 2027.
Key Highlights of the Hybrid Model Agreement
- Champions Trophy 2025: Set to begin on February 19, Pakistan will serve as the host nation. However, India’s league matches, including their high-profile clash against Pakistan, will be played in Dubai. The semifinals and final are planned for Dubai, but if India exits in the group stage, the matches will shift to Lahore and Rawalpindi.
- Future ICC Events: The hybrid model will also apply to:
- 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup will be held in India.
- Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be held in Two Countries India and Srilanka
- 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup: Hosted by Pakistan, with neutral venues for certain matches.
Neutral venues will be suggested by the host boards and must receive approval from the ICC.
Neutral Venue Impact
A similar hybrid approach was successfully used during the 2023 Men’s Asia Cup. India played their matches in Colombo, Sri Lanka, while Pakistan hosted the remaining fixtures. This model has proven effective in accommodating the complex political and logistical challenges arising from strained India-Pakistan relations.
Potential T20 Tri-Series on Neutral Grounds
Reports suggest that a triangular T20I series involving India, Pakistan, and another Asian or Associate team could be organized at neutral venues. This series would compensate for Pakistan’s inability to host India’s matches during the Champions Trophy. Details regarding this series are yet to be confirmed.
The Legacy of India-Pakistan Rivalry
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral cricket series since 2012-13 due to ongoing political tensions. Their encounters are now limited to ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.India visited Last time in Pakistan was for the 2008 Asia Cup. These constraints make the hybrid model an essential compromise for maintaining competitive cricket between the two nations.
Conclusion
The hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025 and other future ICC events represents a pragmatic solution to ensure the participation of all teams while navigating geopolitical challenges. Cricket fans can look forward to thrilling contests in neutral settings, with the India-Pakistan rivalry continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.
By embracing this model, the ICC aims to balance political realities with its mission to promote global cricket.