The International Cricket Council on 13 December approved the hybrid Champions Trophy model, as both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) agreed to host matches in Pakistan and Dubai, reported India Today.
However, the PCB has agreed with the CT 2025 terms, with the condition that the Pakistan Cricket Team will not travel to India for the league-stage clash against India, and they will be held in Colombo.
Among other details popping in, the PCB will not receive any financial compensation for this arrangement – missing the opportunity to host India matches. Still, they made sure to secure the hosting rights for an ICC Women’s tournament after 2027.
Following the deadlocks were broken – logistical and geopolitical concerns – all stakeholders appeared satisfied with the arrangements.
As per the details, the matches are to be played across three venues in Pakistan, while India games will be played in Dubai.
Earlier on 4 December, the BCCI reportedly rejected Pakistan’s ‘condition’ for ICC events hosted in India to follow the same ‘hybrid model’ proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The BCCI rejected PCB’s demand for a hybrid model for Pakistan team stating there’s no security threat in India to justify it.
Meanwhile, Jay Shah officially assumed the role of International Cricket Council (ICC) Chair on December 1, succeeding Greg Barclay, who had held the position since November 2020.
Scheduled dates:
According to the draft schedule, the Champions Trophy 2025 may take place between from February 19 to March 9, with eight teams divided into two groups.
Two top teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, followed by the final.
The CT 2025 echoes the same approach of Men’s 50-over Asia Cup 2023, when India didn’t travel to the neighbouring country despite Pakistan hosting the matches. India’s league matches took place in Sri Lanka’s Colombo, including the semifinal and final.