The Indian team will play its ICC Champions Trophy 2025 matches at a neutral venue, following an agreement between the ICC and member cricket boards. According to the agreement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will decide the neutral venue for India’s matches. Under this hybrid model, while the tournament will primarily be held in Pakistan, India’s matches will be played outside the country.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The decision comes amidst controversy as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing security and political concerns, despite assurances from all member boards about safety measures.
Earlier this month, BCCI representatives turned down a PCB proposal for a “partnership formula” to resolve the ongoing dispute. Reports indicate that all ICC events until 2027 will adopt the hybrid model. During this period, Pakistan will not play matches in India, with fixtures being held at neutral venues whenever India hosts tournaments.
Additionally, the report mentions that Pakistan will host another ICC event within four years and has been awarded the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup. The hybrid model could extend to this event as well.
In a recent PCB Board of Governors (BoG) meeting held in Islamabad, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to hosting the Champions Trophy successfully. Naqvi emphasized that preparations are on track, with stadium renovations at Gaddafi Stadium, National Stadium, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium progressing well.
“Our focus has been on ensuring success for Pakistan and cricket. The people of Pakistan are eager to see international teams play on our home grounds, and we will ensure the event’s prestige is preserved,” Naqvi stated.
The BoG praised Naqvi’s efforts and expressed satisfaction with the ongoing developments, highlighting the importance of keeping cricket free from political interference.
