Sun Dec 01 03:16:43 UTC 2024: ## ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Hybrid Model on the Cards, But Pakistan Demands Concessions

**Dubai, UAE:** The future of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, originally awarded to Pakistan, hangs in the balance due to India’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan. This has forced the ICC to consider a “hybrid model,” potentially staging matches in a neutral venue.

While Pakistan initially opposed the hybrid model, the PCB has softened its stance, albeit with conditions. PCB Chairman Mohsin Khan stated that they’ve presented their perspective to the ICC, emphasizing the need for a mutually beneficial solution that upholds Pakistan’s dignity. He stressed the importance of fairness, hinting at reciprocity for future ICC tournaments in India. Pakistan’s key demand is that all future ICC tournaments adopt this hybrid model, preventing them from having to tour India until at least 2031. This directly affects the 2029 Champions Trophy slated for India, and potentially the 2024 Women’s ODI World Cup, also in India.

Adding to the complexity, the PCB is demanding a significant increase in its annual ICC revenue share from 5.75% to an unspecified higher percentage. This demand, however, could be a major sticking point, as the ICC’s revenue distribution for 2024-2027 is already finalized. This increase, along with the stipulation that future ICC tournaments utilize the hybrid model, could potentially derail the tournament if the ICC refuses to comply. Failure to reach an agreement could result in significant financial losses for both the ICC and the PCB.

A potential hybrid model would see India’s matches played in a neutral venue, likely Dubai, while the rest of the tournament would take place in Pakistan. However, should the hybrid model be implemented, the PCB also wants Lahore to host the final match as a backup, in case India does not reach the final. If the tournament is canceled, Pakistan stands to lose a $6 million hosting fee.

The uncertainty surrounding the Champions Trophy’s future is expected to be resolved in the coming days, as the ICC Executive Board deliberates on Pakistan’s revised demands. The tournament is scheduled for February 19th to March 9th, 2025, marking the Champions Trophy’s return after a hiatus since 2017. The situation mirrors the Asia Cup 2023, where India played its matches in Sri Lanka due to similar concerns.

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