Today the ICC Board is in session and it is expected that the body will to decide the format and the location of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As scheduled for Pakistan, the tournament has been experiencing problems because India does not wish to play the matches in Pakistan. This has paved way to debate whether or not the new format of learning should be half online and half face to face.
Pakistan’s Push to Host Entirely
The PCB had been looking forward to hosting its first major ICC event after almost three decades. The PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) was completely against any move to shift some of these matches outside of the country.
Still, recent disturbances and people’s demonstrations in Lahore and other Pakistani cities have emerged concern of organizing all games in Pakistan. That being said, for both forces of international pressure and logistical problems, a hybrid model with PCB resistance is most probable.
What is the Hybrid Model?
This form of the hybrid model would split the matches between Pakistan and a neutral country. The UAE is favoured to host India’s matches besides the curtain raiser and possibly the knockout matches. This format was also applied during Asia Cup 2023 when India played the Sri-Lankan team in Sri Lanka while all other games were played in Pakistan.
India’s Influence and Demands
India has a large say in the matters related to ICC because it contributes a lot of revenues to international cricket.
The BCCI is reluctant to allow India’s matches at home, and have been insistent on venue that is neutral, mainly for security reasons. Further, India demands the knockout stages and final to staged out side Pakistan. This has upset the PCB which has insisted that the closing stages of the tournament should take place in Pakistan.
Challenges for Pakistan
Pakistan’s ability to host international cricket is under scrutiny again after protests in Islamabad recently disrupted a Sri Lanka A tour. This has added to concerns about whether Pakistan can safely host a high-profile tournament like the Champions Trophy.
What’s Next?
The ICC Board’s meeting will likely result in the approval of a hybrid format. A full schedule for the tournament is expected after the meeting. This will clarify where each team will play and outline plans for the knockout stages.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 faces complex challenges, with politics and safety concerns playing a significant role. While Pakistan hoped to fully host the event, a hybrid model seems to be the most practical solution. The final decision from today’s ICC meeting will set the path for the tournament, which begins in February 2025.
