The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly stated its intention to host the Champions Trophy 2025 entirely in Pakistan, rejecting any hybrid model proposals. This strong stance has reportedly led the PCB to threaten withdrawal from the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, if India refuses to travel to Pakistan.
The PCB’s position responds to reports from Indian media about the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) reluctance to send its team to Pakistan due to political and security concerns. India has not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, and the BCCI is considering requesting the ICC to adopt a hybrid model, allowing India to play its matches in a neutral country.
Cricketing ties between India and Pakistan have been strained since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, with bilateral series suspended and matches only occurring in ICC events or neutral venues. The recent Asia Cup 2023 saw a similar situation where the BCCI’s refusal to travel to Pakistan led to a hybrid model, resulting in Pakistan losing hosting rights for key matches.
The ICC faces a difficult task of balancing the interests of both cricketing powerhouses while maintaining the integrity of international competitions. The upcoming ICC Annual Conference in Colombo will be crucial, with the PCB expected to strongly oppose any hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025
