Fri Nov 08 13:14:27 UTC 2024: ## PCB Denies Agreement to ‘Hybrid Model’ for Champions Trophy 2025
**Lahore, Pakistan** – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly denied reports claiming it has agreed to a “hybrid model” for the 2025 Champions Trophy, proposed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The hybrid model, which would see India play its matches at a neutral venue, was reportedly accepted by the PCB. However, PCB sources have categorically stated that no such agreement has been reached and the two boards have not even discussed the hybrid model.
“The hybrid model is not under consideration,” said a PCB source. “Our position has not changed. People are filing stories just to get views. As of now, we haven’t decided anything regarding the Champions Trophy. Our stand is that we want to host the tournament in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.”
The denial comes amid ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India, with the two teams not playing a bilateral series for over a decade. While Pakistan travelled to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup, India’s participation in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain.
Despite this, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the Federal Interior Minister, recently assured a smooth visa issuance policy for Indian fans planning to visit Pakistan for the tournament. He stated that the PCB is expecting a positive response from Indian fans and will be reserving a special quota of tickets for them.
“We would like to see Indian fans visit Pakistan and watch the India-Pakistan match in Lahore,” said Naqvi.
The PCB’s denial of the hybrid model agreement throws further uncertainty into the already complicated situation surrounding the 2025 Champions Trophy. It remains unclear how the tournament will proceed, particularly given India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan.
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