The schedule and venues for the 2025 Champions Trophy, set to be hosted in Pakistan next year, remain uncertain. The BCCI has refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan, prompting the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider a hybrid model.
However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dealt a major blow to both India and the ICC by rejecting the hybrid model. This means Pakistan has refused to accept India’s proposal to play their matches outside Pakistan.
ICC Meeting on Champions Trophy Today
If Pakistan remains firm on its stance, the ICC may have to consider shifting the tournament to another country. To address these issues, the ICC is holding a crucial meeting today (November 29), where significant decisions regarding the schedule and the hybrid model will be made. A potential announcement is expected after the meeting.
The meeting will include all board members. With the current situation in Pakistan being less than ideal, PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi is closely monitoring developments. Despite these challenges, the PCB has been actively preparing for the Champions Trophy 2025, with stadium upgrades nearly completed.
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Pakistan Rejects the Hybrid Model
While the Indian government has refused to allow its team to play in Pakistan, the BCCI has informed the ICC that they are willing to participate under a hybrid model. However, the PCB has rejected this proposal.
Just a day before the meeting, the PCB informed the ICC not to discuss the hybrid model option during the board meeting. According to sources, the PCB believes accepting the hybrid model would mean giving undue preference to India.
A source told PTI, “I can confirm that the PCB has informed the ICC a few hours ago that the hybrid model for the tournament is unacceptable.” The PCB fears that the hybrid model could set a precedent favoring India, which could also impact the 2031 ODI World Cup, scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Bangladesh.
