Formal recognition has been given to the hybrid web hosting model of the PCB through the International Cricket Council in accordance with which the PCB hybrid model would host the tournament including the Champions Trophy in 2025. Thus, it brings an end to the long stalemate between PCB and BCCI, opening a new, cooperative chapter in cricketing diplomacy.
ICC Hybrid Model Important Facts
League Matches: To be played in Pakistan.
India vs. Pakistan Match: To be played at a neutral venue.
Final Match: To be played at a venue decided on India’s qualification either Lahore or at a neutral venue.
This agreement will guarantee Pakistan’s hosting status while satisfying India’s security needs, maintaining the balance between culture and pragmatism.
Beyond the Champions Trophy
The PCB and BCCI have also agreed on the 2026 T20 World Cup. Under a special deal:
– Pakistan will no longer travel to India for the group-stage match.
– The India-Pakistan match will instead be played in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Furthermore, Pakistan has secured internet hosting rights for an ICC Women’s match after 2027, signifying the ICC’s consciousness of Pakistan’s cricketing infrastructure and contribution.
A Financial and Strategic Decision
Even though Pakistan no longer gets immediate financial benefit for these changes, this deal still remains a political triumph for the PCB. Agreeing to this deal enables Pakistan to maintain its hosting right of international events while ensuring its position as an essential stakeholder in global cricket.
In total, their World Cup confrontation garnered the following: 173 million television viewers in India alone in 2023. Also, in total around 225 million in view digitally around the globe again that season, this underlined just how paramount and the match-up continues.
Champions Trophy 2025: What’s Cooking in sport world!
Scheduled from 19th February to 9th March, the event will host eight groups divided into two groups. The semifinals and closing promise exciting encounters, with the hybrid model including an exciting dynamic.
Pakistan hosts its first-ever ICC match since 1996; cricketing aficionados across the globe want to have a memorable display.
Linking Horizons Through Cricket
The ICC’s decision to take on a hybrid model serves as a testament to how sports can overcome geopolitical obstacles while strengthening unity. With cricket’s biggest competition remaining a magnet for millions of viewers, this agreement stands as proof of the power of diplomacy in keeping the sport at the forefront of shared cultural heritage.
