PCB Considers Hybrid Model for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Amid India’s Travel Concerns

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is willing to adjust the schedule and venues for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

This is in response to India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan.

The PCB had originally planned to host all of India’s matches at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. However, due to political tensions, the Indian government is unlikely to approve the Indian team’s travel to Pakistan.

As a result, the PCB is considering a hybrid model for the tournament.

In this model, India would play all of its matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while Pakistan would host the other games.

This would be the second time Pakistan hosts a tournament in this hybrid format. The Asia Cup 2023 was also held this way, with India’s matches played in Sri Lanka due to similar travel issues.

Reports suggest that India could play its matches in Dubai or Sharjah, while Pakistan would play all its matches at home. However, the logistics of this setup, especially how other teams will travel between Pakistan and the UAE, are still unclear.

The ICC will announce the final schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy next week.

The tournament will start on February 19, 2025. Pakistan will play New Zealand in Karachi for the opening match. The final is scheduled for March 9, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

The PCB is upgrading stadiums in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore for the event.