The International cricket Council appears to be “in trouble” since handing over the hosting rights to PCB. After Pakistan was named host of the ICC The ICC encountered serious resistance from the BCCI as it refused entry to the neighboring country.
Hybrid model considered for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
After being asked by the ICC to host the Champions Trophy, the PCB had planned to host all the matches of the tournament in the country and proposed four different venues for the same.
The BCCI has already informed the ICC that the Indian government has not allowed them to travel to Pakistan with their players due to security reasons.
As a result, the International Cricket Council has proposed a new model under which the matches against India would be moved from Pakistan to the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. This arrangement is similar to the previous Asia Cup in Pakistan, where India played its matches in Sri Lanka.
This suggestion has been forwarded by the ICC to the PCB officials and therefore seeks confirmation of the same. By accepting this model, Pakistan retains hosting rights, although some matches will be played outside its borders.
Pakistan's interpretation of the hybrid model
The PCB is reportedly in continuous consultation with the Government of Pakistan as both examine all possible measures and aspects.
The PCB considers this refusal by the Indian board as a serious setback to the honor of its board and the pride of the nation. The PCB could sue BCCI in the International Court of Arbitration for Sports and also refuse to play against India at ICC events.
After all, Pakistan had the opportunity to host a major ICC tournament for the first time since the 1996 World Cup with the 2025 Champions Trophy. Pakistan, which has not even been deprived of the co-host role since 2008, does not seem to accept a hybrid model, especially when giants such as England and Australia have visited the country in recent times.
South Africa are the likely hosts of the Champions Trophy
According to reports in Sports Tak, Pakistan will most likely reject the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy; in such a case the entire Champions Trophy could be moved to South Africa.
When India refused to travel to Pakistan last time, Pakistan was dropped from the host role in 2008 and the Champions Trophy was hosted by South Africa in 2009. The ICC is therefore considering that the South African country will host the Champions Trophy again.
The coming weeks will show much for the continuation of the Champions Trophy as the ICC awaits a response from the PCB on the proposed hybrid model.
