Dubai & Pakistan Set to Co-Host ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to unveil the schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 today, following the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) agreement to the hybrid model, as reported by Express News.
The landmark decision comes after successful negotiations between the ICC, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the eight participating cricket boards. This resolution paves the way for Pakistan and Dubai to co-host the prestigious tournament.
Hybrid Model Approved
In a bid to address security and logistical concerns raised by some boards, the ICC has approved a hybrid hosting model. Under this arrangement:
- Pakistan will host 10 matches, while Dubai will host all three of India’s league-stage matches, including the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan.
- The semifinals and final are also slated for Dubai unless India is eliminated in the league stage. In such a scenario, Lahore and Rawalpindi will host the knockout matches.
T20 World Cup 2026 Agreement
In a related development, the PCB and BCCI have agreed on a neutral venue for their league-stage match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The high-profile encounter will take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with Pakistan deciding not to travel to India due to ongoing tensions.
While the PCB will not receive financial compensation for the hybrid model adjustments, they have secured the hosting rights for an ICC Women’s tournament after 2027 as part of the negotiations.
Tournament Details
The Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to run from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Pakistan, the defending champions, last clinched the title in 2017.
Background: India-Pakistan Rivalry
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2012-13, with their clashes restricted to ICC events and the Asia Cup due to strained political relations. India last traveled to Pakistan for the Asia Cup in 2008.
The hybrid hosting model is reminiscent of the 2023 men’s Asia Cup, where India played all their matches in Colombo, and Pakistan hosted the remaining fixtures.
This collaborative decision highlights a significant step toward ensuring the tournament’s success while balancing political and logistical challenges.
