ICC confirms hybrid model for Champions Trophy 2025

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has finally addressed the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the 2025 Champions Trophy and clarified its position.

In a statement published on their official website, the ICC confirmed that matches involving India and Pakistan during ICC events in the 2024-2027 cycle will be held at neutral venues.

This decision, approved by the ICC Board on Thursday, December 19, applies to several major tournaments.

The ruling immediately impacts the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to take place in February and March 2025, with Pakistan as the host nation. Matches involving India during this tournament will be held at a neutral location.

Similarly, neutral venue arrangements will apply to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, hosted by India, and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The ICC further announced that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been awarded hosting rights for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028. For this event as well, matches involving India and Pakistan will follow the neutral venue policy.

Regarding the Champions Trophy 2025, the ICC stated that the tournament would take place across Pakistan and a neutral venue. However, the neutral venue wasn’t disclosed.

The tournament host will propose a neutral venue, subject to ICC approval. While the UAE is the leading candidate, Sri Lanka has also been considered. The PCB will maintain full hosting rights for the event.