NEW DELHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of its willingness to accept the ‘Hybrid’ model for the Champions Trophy 2025. This signifies a shift from its earlier boycott threat. The PCB‘s condition is that the same model be applied to ICC events scheduled in India until 2031.
The information, initially revealed by a PCB source in Karachi, was later confirmed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi in Dubai. The Champions Trophy is slated for February-March next year. India has expressed security concerns about traveling to Pakistan.
“I don’t want to comment too much because that can ruin things. We have given our point of view (to the ICC), the Indians have also given theirs. The effort is to ensure a win-win for all,” Naqvi told reporters.
Naqvi addressed the media, emphasizing the importance of a mutually beneficial solution. He stressed the need for cricket to take precedence while respecting all parties involved.
“Cricket should win, that’s most important but with respect for all. We are going to do what’s best for cricket. Whichever formula we go for, it would be on equal terms.”
“Pakistan’s pride is most important. We have to ensure that cricket wins but Pakistan’s pride also remains intact.”
The PCB’s acceptance of the ‘Hybrid’ model marks a departure from its initial stance. Previously, the PCB had threatened to boycott the tournament if India’s request for a neutral venue was granted.
Naqvi remained noncommittal when questioned about Pakistan’s agreement to the current arrangement. His response was: “Let’s see what happens.”
He reiterated his pursuit of an equitable system, emphasizing reciprocity in travel arrangements between India and Pakistan.
“My effort is to ensure that there is no one-sided system. It shouldn’t be that we travel to India and they don’t come to our country. Idea is to settle it once and for all on equal terms.”
India are scheduled to host three ICC men’s events between now and 2031. These include the 2026 T20 World Cup (jointly with Sri Lanka), the 2029 Champions Trophy, and the 2031 ODI World Cup (jointly with Bangladesh).
With Bangladesh and Sri Lanka co-hosting two major events, Pakistan might avoid traveling to India. The 2029 Champions Trophy, to be held entirely in India, could be a point of contention.
The 2025 women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled in India, could also be a potential point of disagreement.
The ICC executive board is expected to address Pakistan’s demands in the coming days. A resolution regarding the Champions Trophy is anticipated.
The ICC Board met briefly on Friday but failed to reach an agreement. The ICC subsequently gave the PCB an ultimatum: accept the hybrid model or be excluded from the tournament.
This stalemate has delayed the announcement of the tournament schedule.
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