The decision was finalised after a meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, UAE Cricket Board head, during Sheikh Nahyan’s visit to the Ghotki region of Sindh.
India’s matches in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be held at a neutral venue in Dubai, as confirmed by a source in Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to AP. The UAE will also host the semi-final and final if India qualifies for the knockout stages.
The decision was finalised after a meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, UAE Cricket Board head, during Sheikh Nahyan’s visit to the Ghotki region of Sindh. Logistical and administrative matters were settled during the discussions, ensuring a smooth arrangement for the tournament, which is officially hosted by Pakistan.
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Background of the Hybrid Model
The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the hybrid model to resolve the deadlock over hosting rights. India, citing security concerns, refused to travel to Pakistan for the event scheduled for February-March 2025. In response, a neutral venue arrangement was agreed upon, with reciprocal terms extended to Pakistan for future ICC tournaments hosted by India until 2027.
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Key Details
- India’s matches will take place in Dubai.
- If India does not qualify for the final, it will be held in Lahore.
- Pakistan is expected to host 9–10 matches of the tournament.
- The hybrid arrangement also applies to the 2026 T20 World Cup (India and Sri Lanka) and next year’s Women’s Cricket World Cup in India.
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Tensions Over Bilateral Cricket
India has not toured Pakistan since 2008 due to strained relations following the Mumbai terror attacks. Additionally, Indian teams require government clearance for travel to Pakistan, a policy that has remained unchanged.
The PCB, despite initially opposing the hybrid model, eventually agreed to the arrangement on reciprocal grounds to preserve its hosting rights. PCB officials emphasized the importance of retaining their nation’s dignity and not allowing a “one-sided” arrangement.
The ICC is expected to announce the full schedule of the Champions Trophy soon. This hybrid model showcases a compromise aimed at maintaining cricketing ties while addressing security concerns.
(With AP and PTI inputs)
