Pakistan Rejects Hybrid Model for ICC Champions Trophy, Stands Firm on Hosting in Pakistan
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains steadfast in its decision to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy on home soil, rejecting any hybrid model that would require matches to be held outside Pakistan. Reports indicate that the Pakistan government has advised the PCB to stand firm and avoid making concessions to India’s demands. This stance follows India’s categorical refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.
PCB Chairperson Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the board is committed to hosting the tournament within Pakistan and will not compromise. Speaking to the media outside Gaddafi Stadium on Friday (November 8), Naqvi stated, “In the last two months, the Indian media has reported that India won’t travel. I discussed this with my team, and our stance is clear: India needs to provide written objections if they have any. So far, there has been no discussion of a hybrid model, nor are we prepared to accept one. These are media reports, but no formal communication has reached the PCB.”
PCB has assured the ICC of robust security arrangements for the Champions Trophy and remains unwilling to move the tournament to a neutral location. As speculation grows over possible alternatives, South Africa has emerged as a potential backup venue if the standoff continues. Recent reports also suggest that India may play its matches in Dubai if a hybrid model is agreed upon, though the PCB remains firm in its opposition.
In response to the ongoing impasse, the ICC has postponed the tournament launch, originally scheduled for November 11 in Lahore. As discussions continue, the ICC, PCB, and BCCI will need to resolve the hosting dispute to ensure the tournament’s success.
