Fri Dec 06 03:02:14 UTC 2024: ## ICC Agrees to Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy 2025 and Future Events

**Dubai, UAE –** The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reached a principle agreement to host the 2025 Champions Trophy using a hybrid model, according to a PTI report citing sources. This model, where matches are played across multiple venues in different countries, will be adopted for all ICC events until 2027.

The decision, reportedly finalized during an informal meeting between ICC President Jay Shah and the Board of Directors, including Pakistan, addresses long-standing concerns regarding Pakistan’s participation in tournaments held in India. Pakistan, having previously threatened a boycott, agreed to the hybrid model in exchange for a similar arrangement for ICC events until 2027.

The 2025 Champions Trophy will be jointly hosted by the UAE and Pakistan, with India playing its matches in Dubai. While this is presented as a win-win situation by the ICC, it represents a significant shift for India.

This agreement means India will play its “home” matches in the Champions Trophy in a neutral venue and will not host Pakistan in any ICC tournament until at least 2027. This includes the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka; Pakistan’s matches in that tournament will be played in Sri Lanka. The Indian women’s team will also be impacted, potentially needing to play against Pakistan at a neutral venue during their upcoming ODI World Cup.

The financial compensation sought by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for agreeing to the hybrid model is still under discussion. The decision comes amid long-standing security concerns that have prevented India from touring Pakistan since 2008. The ICC has acknowledged that member boards are not expected to disregard government travel advisories. The agreement may prove controversial among Indian fans who may be disappointed at the prospect of their team not playing Pakistan on home soil.

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