In a shift from its earlier stance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly agreed to adopt a hybrid model for hosting the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, allowing India’s matches to take place in the UAE, likely in Dubai or Sharjah. This decision comes in response to the Indian government’s stance on not permitting the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan due to security and political concerns.
The PCB had previously hosted the 2023 Asia Cup in a similar hybrid model, where India’s matches were relocated to Sri Lanka. A source within the PCB told PTI, “The PCB believes that if India’s government does not grant permission for travel to Pakistan, slight adjustments can ensure India’s matches are held in the UAE.”
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet finalized its decision, the PCB is pressing for confirmation soon. It’s anticipated that ICC Chairman Jay Shah, also a BCCI official, will be involved in the discussions. The PCB has requested the ICC to announce a tentative schedule by November 11 and has already submitted a revised plan for the tournament’s budget.
The PCB has further urged the ICC to seek a written confirmation from the BCCI regarding India’s participation in Pakistan. The Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 19, 2025, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opening match in Karachi, while India’s matches were initially scheduled in Lahore for security and logistical reasons.
