ICC Set to Decide on Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy 2025 Amidst Tensions Between PCB and BCCI

The fate of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy hangs in the balance as the International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to make a crucial decision on the venue and schedule for the tournament this Saturday, November 30. A virtual meeting was held on Friday between representatives from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to resolve the ongoing dispute surrounding the event’s hosting.

The meeting, which lasted just 20 minutes, ended with no resolution as the PCB maintained its firm stance to host the entire tournament in Pakistan. According to a senior administrator from an ICC full-member nation, discussions will continue in the coming days in hopes of reaching a consensus.

“Pakistan was originally selected to host the Champions Trophy, but the BCCI has refused to send their team due to security concerns. They have proposed a hybrid model where India would play all their matches at a neutral venue,” the source said.

However, this suggestion has sparked strong opposition from the PCB. The Pakistan board is adamant that the entire tournament should take place in their country, asserting that they will not accept a situation where India plays their games at a neutral venue. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed their frustration, stating, “Pakistan will not keep participating in events in India while Indian authorities refuse to send their teams to Pakistan. This imbalance is not acceptable.”

The ongoing tensions have placed significant pressure on the ICC, as they are already 10 days past the deadline for announcing the schedule, which must be disclosed 90 days before the start of the tournament. The ICC is now under intense scrutiny to find a solution that satisfies both boards.

As the ICC works to resolve the issue, all eyes are on the final decision, with both the PCB and BCCI standing firm on their positions.