Sat Nov 30 06:37:20 UTC 2024: ## Champions Trophy 2025 Faces Hybrid Hosting Impasse: Pakistan Isolated

**Dubai, UAE** – The future of the 2025 Champions Trophy hangs in the balance as a dispute over its hosting continues. A Friday meeting of the International Cricket Council (ICC) saw a near-unanimous push for a “hybrid model” to accommodate India’s participation, but Pakistan, the designated host, remains firmly opposed.

The Indian government has not yet cleared the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan, prompting the ICC to explore alternative arrangements. According to reports, all member boards except the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) support a hybrid model, where India would play its matches in a neutral venue. However, the PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has reiterated Pakistan’s refusal to accept this compromise.

Sources within the ICC have indicated that the tournament’s viability hinges on Naqvi’s acceptance of the hybrid model. Without it, the ICC may be forced to relocate the entire tournament to a different country, possibly the UAE, but excluding Pakistan.

The Friday meeting, chaired by ICC deputy chairperson Imran Khwaja due to the absence of outgoing chair Greg Barclay, was short due to Naqvi’s stance. Further discussions are scheduled for Saturday and beyond, with all parties aiming for a resolution. The financial implications are significant, as the participation of India is deemed crucial for broadcasting revenue.

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