Champions Trophy 2025: PCB Signals Shift Towards Hybrid Model Amid ICC Pressure
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 has taken another twist as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appears to be softening its stance on the proposed hybrid model. PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi’s recent meeting with Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Secretary Mubashir Usmani in Dubai has intensified speculation that Pakistan might accept this solution to break the deadlock.
PCB and ICC Lock Horns Over Hosting Rights
The ICC has been locked in intense discussions with member boards to finalize the Champions Trophy schedule, scheduled to take place between February and March 2025. The sticking point has been the PCB’s insistence on hosting the tournament entirely within Pakistan, a stance that has drawn opposition due to concerns over security.
During a pivotal ICC Board Meeting in Dubai, Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to host the tournament and assured state-level security for all teams. However, the ICC made it clear that Pakistan must accept the hybrid hosting model or risk being excluded from the competition altogether. The hybrid model would see matches involving India played in a neutral venue, likely the UAE, while other matches remain in Pakistan.
Mohsin Naqvi’s Strategic Move
Naqvi’s meeting with Mubashir Usmani, who also chairs the ICC’s Associate Members’ Committee, has fueled speculation about the PCB’s changing position. Reports suggest that Naqvi assured Usmani of Pakistan’s preparedness to host the Champions Trophy and emphasized stability within the country. However, the meeting has also opened the door to Pakistan potentially agreeing to a hybrid model as a “plausible solution” to the current impasse.
ICC’s Firm Stand
Despite some ICC members expressing sympathy for Pakistan’s situation, the governing body has held firm on the hybrid model as the most practical approach. Friday’s executive board meeting ended inconclusively due to the PCB’s earlier resistance, but pressure on Pakistan to accept the compromise is mounting.
What’s Next?
While no official decision has been announced, the PCB’s willingness to engage in discussions over the hybrid model could mark a turning point. If implemented, India’s matches would likely take place in the UAE, allowing the tournament to proceed without boycotts or security concerns overshadowing the event.
For now, all eyes are on the ICC and PCB as they work towards resolving the hosting debate. With the tournament just over a year away, a final decision is expected soon, ending months of speculation and paving the way for the highly anticipated Champions Trophy 2025.
