India-Pakistan Hybrid Model Approved for ICC Tournaments Until 2027
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly softened its stance regarding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and agreed to host the tournament under a hybrid model. According to ICC sources, this model will be in effect for all tournaments held in India and Pakistan until 2027.
As part of this agreement, India is likely to play its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan. This decision was reached during an informal meeting held on Thursday at the ICC headquarters in Dubai, chaired by ICC’s new president, Jay Shah, and attended by cricket board directors from various countries, including Pakistan.
Hybrid Model Agreement and Context
ICC sources confirmed to PTI, “All boards have principally agreed to the hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which will be hosted by both Pakistan and the UAE. This is a positive decision and a collective victory.”
Initially, PCB opposed the hybrid model and even threatened to boycott the tournament. However, during last week’s meeting, PCB conceded, agreeing to the hybrid arrangement. The board also demanded that all ICC tournaments hosted in India and Pakistan until 2031 follow the same model. Ultimately, the ICC approved the hybrid model for events up to 2027, including the Champions Trophy, with PCB’s consent.
Upcoming ICC Tournaments
India will host the Women’s ODI World Cup in October 2025 and the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, under the hybrid model, in collaboration with Sri Lanka. Pakistan is expected to play its matches for the 2026 T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka.
However, PCB’s demand for compensation related to the hybrid model is still under consideration.
Historical and Security Considerations
Since 2008, India has refrained from touring Pakistan due to security concerns. The BCCI had earlier made it clear that India would not send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, prompting PCB to insist on India’s participation in Pakistan. Eventually, the PCB agreed to the hybrid model, bringing clarity to the tournament’s organization.
With this agreement, the uncertainty surrounding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has come to an end, ensuring a structured pathway for its execution.