The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its readiness to adopt a hybrid model for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, which will be co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE. This decision comes after the Indian government’s reluctance to allow the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the tournament due to security concerns.
Background and Context
The Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Initially, Pakistan had planned to host all matches, including those involving India. However, given the current socio-political environment and security concerns, the Indian government is unlikely to permit the Indian team to travel to Pakistan.
The Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy 2025
In response to this situation, the PCB has proposed a hybrid model similar to the Asia Cup 2023, where India played its matches in Sri Lanka while Pakistan hosted the rest of the tournament. Under this model, India’s matches will be held in the UAE, specifically in cities like Dubai and Sharjah. Meanwhile, Pakistan will host its matches in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
PCB’s Efforts and Investments
The PCB has invested significantly in upgrading its stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi to ensure smooth tournament operations. The total expenditure on these upgrades is estimated to be around 13 billion rupees. This investment underscores the PCB’s commitment to hosting a successful and memorable tournament.
Schedule and Key Matches
According to the tentative schedule, Pakistan will face New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, 2025. The marquee match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is slated to take place in Lahore on March 1, 2025. The final match of the tournament is scheduled for March 9, 2025, at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
🚨TEAM INDIA WILL NOT GO TO PAKISTAN 🚨
– The BCCI has communicated with PCB that due to security concern & Team India won't travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025#ChampionsTrophy #championstrophy2025 #AUSvPAK #indvpak #ViratKohli #RohitSharma#IPLAuction2025… pic.twitter.com/XHeTMjZjem
— CricketTak (@_CricketTak) November 8, 2024
BCCI’s Role and ICC’s Position
The PCB has requested the ICC to push the BCCI for confirmation on whether India will be allowed to play in Pakistan. The ICC, chaired by India’s Jay Shah, cannot force any board to go against its government’s policy. The PCB is keen to announce the schedule by next week to avoid any delays.
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