The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to finalize a hybrid hosting model for the Champions Trophy 2025 during its board meeting on Saturday. This decision is anticipated to align with the interests of key stakeholders, including the ICC, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Pakistan as Primary Host
According to a report from Cricbuzz, Pakistan is likely to retain its status as the official host of the tournament. Ten out of the 15 matches are set to be held in Pakistan, while India's three group-stage games, one semi-final, and the final are expected to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This hybrid arrangement aims to address logistical and political challenges while ensuring smooth execution of the tournament.
Ongoing Discussions Between BCCI and PCB
While the BCCI and PCB have reportedly reached some middle ground on hosting matters, certain sticking points remain unresolved. One critical issue is the PCB’s demand for a similar hybrid hosting model for ICC events scheduled in India over the coming years. However, it is believed that the BCCI may not provide any written assurances on this matter, leaving room for further negotiations.
Upcoming ICC Events in India
India is poised to host several key ICC tournaments in the near future. These include the Women's ODI World Cup in 2025 and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted with Sri Lanka. Additionally, India holds the hosting rights for the T20-format Asia Cup in 2025.
A History of Restricted Bilateral Cricket
India and Pakistan have not engaged in bilateral cricket series since 2008 due to political tensions. The last time India played a cricket match in Pakistan was during the Asia Cup 2008 at Karachi's National Stadium. Although Pakistan was scheduled to host last year’s Asia Cup, India’s matches, including the final, were shifted to Sri Lanka due to strained relations.
Despite limited interactions, Pakistan has traveled to India four times in the past 16 years, primarily for ICC events, underlining the complexities of cricket diplomacy between the two nations.
The approval of the hybrid hosting model for the Champions Trophy 2025 marks a significant step in overcoming the challenges of organizing international cricket amidst political sensitivities. It highlights the ICC’s efforts to strike a balance between operational feasibility and fostering cricketing ties across borders.