PCB Rejects Hybrid Model Proposal for Champions Trophy 2025: Reports

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of its firm stance against adopting a hybrid model for hosting the Champions Trophy next year. This announcement comes just ahead of the ICC board meeting , where the schedule for the prestigious tournament, slated to take place in Pakistan, is set to be finalized.

“I can confirm that PCB has a few hours back told the ICC that a Hybrid Model is not acceptable to them," a source revealed to PTI, emphasizing the board's position.

Initially, the PCB had considered accepting the hybrid model under specific conditions. “I can confirm initially the PCB had looked at the possibility of a Hybrid model on the condition that if India can’t play in Pakistan, then in future there would be Hybrid models in all ICC events in India right until 2031 (ODI World Cup in India and Bangladesh) as Pakistan would not go and play in India," the source added.

The PCB also raised questions about whether the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had submitted any formal documentation from its government prohibiting the Indian team from traveling to Pakistan for the tournament.

“Under ICC regulations, if any team says its government is not allowing it to play in another nation on whatever grounds, that board has to submit their government’s directives in writing, which we have not seen so far,” the source explained.

While acknowledging the financial significance of the Indian market and its contribution to ICC revenues, the PCB emphasized Pakistan’s substantial role in generating revenue through its high-stakes matches against India.

The impasse between the two boards stems from India’s long-standing refusal to tour Pakistan, citing security concerns. The last Indian team visit to Pakistan was in 2008, prior to the Mumbai terror attacks. The ICC has clarified that it will not expect any member board to go against its government’s advice.