The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan, has hit a significant roadblock. India is reportedly unwilling to send its cricket team to Pakistan due to ongoing diplomatic tensions. This development has raised questions about the tournament’s organization and venue allocation.
In a recent virtual meeting, the International Cricket Council (ICC) proposed a hybrid model for the tournament to address the issue. Key details of the proposal include:
- India’s three group matches, a semi-final, and the final to be played in a neutral country.
- The remaining matches will take place in Pakistan, as planned.
If India fails to progress from the group stage, both the semi-final and final would be hosted in Pakistan under the proposed arrangement.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has cited the Indian government’s refusal to allow the national team to travel to Pakistan as the primary reason for its position. This mirrors a similar approach used during the 2023 Asia Cup, where matches involving India were hosted in neutral venues under a hybrid model.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed firm resistance to relocating games outside its borders. They are keen on hosting the entire tournament in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. However, the situation is further complicated by other factors:
- The Sri Lanka Cricket Board recently canceled its A team’s tour of Pakistan, affecting PCB’s preparations.
- Domestic unrest, including the imprisonment of former Prime Minister and ex-captain Imran Khan, has added political instability.
Two plans are under ICC consideration:
- A hybrid model with India’s matches and key knockouts played at a neutral venue.
- A Pakistan-only model for the semi-final and final if India doesn’t advance from the group stage.
The ICC has indicated a likely preference for the UAE as a neutral venue due to its proximity to Pakistan, reducing travel time for participating teams. A vote among ICC members will determine whether the hybrid model moves forward or not. The PCB will then decide whether to accept the arrangement or not.
