Champions Trophy 2025: Dubai to Host India’s Matches As ICC, PCB, and BCCI Agree On Hybrid Model, Says Report

In a significant development for cricket, a consensus has been reached between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the hosting model for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. This agreement introduces a hybrid model that will see Dubai hosting all of India's matches and possibly the knockout stages should the Indian team advance to the semi-finals. This arrangement marks a notable collaboration between the two cricketing boards under the guidance of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The adoption of the hybrid model extends beyond the Champions Trophy, as it has also been agreed for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 scheduled in India. This decision will see Pakistan playing their World Cup matches in Sri Lanka, showcasing a flexible approach towards hosting cricket's premier events. The move comes as a result of negotiations aimed at accommodating the unique geopolitical and security challenges faced by the participating countries.

An ICC official revealed that ICC Chairman Jay Shah is set to conduct a virtual meeting with PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi to iron out the details of this hybrid model. "There's a virtual meeting tomorrow which ICC chairman Jay Shah will join from Brisbane," the official stated, indicating that an official announcement from the ICC is imminent following these discussions. This meeting underscores the efforts of the cricketing bodies to ensure the smooth execution of the hybrid model for these significant tournaments.

Despite this breakthrough, the hybrid model means that the BCCI will not host an India vs. Pakistan World Cup game on its soil, a prospect that often generates immense excitement and viewership. This decision came after the PCB insisted on playing their games in India at a neutral venue, leading to the acceptance of the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025. The resolution reflects a compromise aimed at maintaining the spirit of the game while addressing the concerns of both boards.

Furthermore, as compensation for adopting the hybrid model, Pakistan has been awarded the hosting rights for a women's tournament post-2027. This gesture signifies the ICC's commitment to promoting women's cricket and ensuring equitable opportunities for all member nations. The PCB's acceptance of the hybrid model followed their initial reluctance and a threat to boycott the tournament unless allowed to host matches on neutral grounds, highlighting the complexities of organizing international cricket events amidst diverse challenges.