Thu Dec 19 15:37:47 UTC 2024: ## ICC Announces Neutral Venues for India-Pakistan Matches Until 2027
**Dubai, UAE** – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has ended months of speculation by announcing that all India versus Pakistan matches in ICC events hosted by either country will be played at neutral venues until 2027. This decision impacts the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan, the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 (hosted by India), and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (hosted by India and Sri Lanka).
The agreement follows a protracted impasse, stemming from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s refusal to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy without government clearance. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) initially rejected a hybrid hosting model, but a compromise has now been reached. This compromise means India will play its matches, including potential knockout stages, at a neutral venue in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
This marks a significant shift, as India will, for the first time, play Pakistan in an ICC event hosted by either nation at a neutral location. The decision also confirms that the 2025 Champions Trophy will be a co-hosted event, with Pakistan hosting some matches and other games taking place elsewhere.
Further announcements include the awarding of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 hosting rights to Pakistan, with neutral venue arrangements also applying. Cricket Australia has also secured the hosting rights for a senior ICC women’s event between 2029 and 2031. The schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is expected to be released shortly. The tournament will feature eight teams: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and Pakistan.
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