November 23, 2024 : The situation surrounding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is evolving, with significant implications for both the hosting and participation of the tournament. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to convene an emergency meeting next week, likely on November 26, to address key questions about the event’s logistics, including whether it will be held solely in Pakistan or in a hybrid model involving another country.
The core issue stems from India’s firm stance on not traveling to Pakistan due to security concerns, which has been communicated to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). India’s non-participation stems from the longstanding political tensions between the two nations, which have prevented bilateral cricket series since 2012-13. The PCB, however, has expressed its desire for India to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, pointing to the precedent set when India participated in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 in India, and when Pakistan hosted the 2023 Asia Cup, albeit in a hybrid format (with India’s matches held in Sri Lanka).
The possibility of a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy—similar to the one used during the Asia Cup—remains a potential solution. This model allows Pakistan to host the tournament while the matches involving India could be played in a neutral venue, which could alleviate some of the concerns over security and political tensions.
The ICC’s emergency meeting is expected to explore all options, including finalizing the host cities and the potential involvement of another country in the hybrid model. Given the complexity of the situation, the outcome of this meeting will have significant implications for the tournament’s planning and the broader cricketing landscape.
