PCB Urges ICC Not to Propose Hybrid Model for 2025 Champions Trophy
LAHORE: The ongoing tension between Pakistan and India over the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has escalated as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made it clear to the International Cricket Council (ICC) not to present a hybrid model during its special executive board meeting on Friday.
The meeting, set to take place online, is aimed at finalizing the schedule for the Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 19 to March 9, 2025. This meeting comes after India refused to tour Pakistan for the tournament, prompting a delay in the schedule announcement, which was originally expected by November 20.
Sources have revealed that the PCB and ICC have been in discussions over the past few days in an attempt to resolve the crisis caused by India’s refusal to participate. The ICC, worried about potential financial losses due to India’s absence, has been considering various solutions, including a hybrid model where matches involving India would be held outside Pakistan, with the semi-finals and final also potentially relocated if India qualifies.
However, the PCB has firmly rejected the hybrid model, stating that the entire tournament must be held in Pakistan, regardless of whether India participates. “The PCB has informed the ICC that we will not accept a hybrid model. Our government has refused to approve it,” said a PCB official. “If the ICC presents any alternative solution, we will consult the government for approval.”
The official also confirmed that the PCB had requested the ICC to present the letter from the Indian government instructing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not to send a team to Pakistan. The PCB has been pressing the ICC for a written explanation of the reasons behind India’s refusal to participate, but so far, this request has not been fulfilled.
The PCB official further emphasized that Pakistan had previously sent its national team to India despite security concerns, citing several past series and tournaments. “Enough is enough,” the official said. “If the ICC decides to shift the Champions Trophy from Pakistan or use a hybrid model, we will follow the instructions of our government.”
In case India opts out, the PCB has suggested that the ICC consider inviting another team to replace India, similar to the way the Netherlands was included in the 2009 T20 World Cup after the British government refused to issue visas to Zimbabwe.
The official also pointed out that the financial impact of postponing the event or using a hybrid model would affect all teams, but particularly the BCCI, which receives a significant share of ICC revenue.
Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi High Commissioner, Muhammad Ruhul Alam Siddique, expressed his support for Pakistan’s efforts to host the Champions Trophy during a meeting with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad. The High Commissioner wished Pakistan success in organizing the event, and discussions also included the promotion of cricket in both Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The PCB continues to move forward with preparations for the tournament, with hosting fees of $6 million expected, although it will also have to pay $1.5 million for the event’s insurance.
