Champions Trophy 2025: Is hybrid model the only option?

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is unlikely to change its stance on not sending the Indian cricket team to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy, largely due to substantial pressure from the Indian government.

A source close to BCCI officials revealed to Nukta that the decision is firm, citing state influence on the board.

“There is absolutely no chance of India traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy,” the source stated, emphasizing that communication with BCCI officials confirmed this stance.

The source said that while final confirmation is expected soon, the likelihood is that the tournament will follow a hybrid model.

“India is more interested in playing its matches in Sri Lanka as it is also close to India. Dubai is also another option,” the source said.

The BCCI has already informed the ICC of its refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, scheduled for February-March 2025.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has written to the ICC, requesting a formal explanation from India regarding its decision and urging them to provide justifications for the refusal.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, speaking at a press conference in Lahore, expressed Pakistan’s willingness to address any concerns India may have.

“We are open to resolving their reservations. There is no valid reason for India to avoid participating in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan,” Naqvi said.

BCCI’s Jay Shah to meet ICC officials

Meanwhile, media reports suggest that BCCI Secretary Jay Shah is expected to meet ICC officials in Dubai on Thursday to deliberate on the issue. Shah is set to take over as ICC Chairman on December 1.

The ICC also faces mounting pressure to finalize the tournament schedule soon, enabling the PCB to proceed with necessary preparations.

BCCI secretary Jay ShahReuters

The PCB plans to host matches in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, with significant upgrades underway at the venues.

The board remains optimistic about completing the renovations at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore by December 31, well ahead of the event.

Naqvi has reiterated that all cricketing nations want Pakistan to host the Champions Trophy.

Pakistan will be hosting its first ICC event since co-hosting the 1996 Cricket World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.