Champions Trophy saga coming close to completion after all concerned parties seeming to agree on hybrid model.
Champions Trophy saga can finally be seen coming to an end after months of deliberations.
The ICC and the PCB are thought to have achieved an in-principle agreement to employ the hybrid model for major events played in Pakistan or India until 2027, which is a possible breakthrough in the 2025 Champions Trophy deadlock. With such a deal, the two might play each other at neutral locations during ICC tournaments that the other hosts.
The PCB, the official host of the 2025 Champions Trophy, has not commented on the deal. They stated simply that talks are still ongoing, despite the fact that it has been confirmed by multiple sources.
The hybrid model’s applicability to both men’s and women’s competitions is currently unknown. Three international events are planned to be held in either nation during the ICC’s current commercial cycle (2024–27). The Champions Trophy in Pakistan in February of next year. The women’s ODI World Cup in India later in 2025. And the men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Following conversations between PCB head Mohsin Naqvi and the newly appointed ICC chair Jay Shah, the development came to light. Shah was making his first visit to the ICC headquarters in Dubai in his new position. It was he who set up a courtesy board meeting where they met. A Board meeting to discuss the Champions Trophy has been scheduled for December 7.
It is thought that a number of requirements must be met before the PCB will approve a hybrid format for the eight-team Champions Trophy. One of ideas is that, until at least 2027, if not until 2031, a hybrid model need to be used for all ICC events. This including women’s events—hosted in India and Pakistan.
The ultimate decision will probably be made at the Board meeting on December 7. It is expected there will probably be further back and forth on the issue between the two boards and the ICC.