Published: December 4, 2024
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly turned down the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) demand to adopt a hybrid model for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, which is set to be hosted in Pakistan. This decision has led to further deadlock in negotiations between the International Cricket Council (ICC), PCB, and BCCI over the tournament’s hosting arrangements.
PCB’s Proposed Hybrid Model
The PCB had earlier proposed a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, suggesting that India’s matches be held in Dubai due to security concerns raised by the BCCI regarding their team’s participation in Pakistan. However, the PCB attached conditions to its proposal, demanding that ICC events in India also adopt a similar hybrid model.
BCCI’s Stand on the Proposal
As per a report by The Telegraph India, the BCCI has firmly rejected PCB’s conditions. The Indian board has argued that there are no security concerns for international teams in India, thus making the adoption of a hybrid model unnecessary.
“The BCCI has sent a clear message to the ICC that there is no security threat in India and hence no question of accepting such an arrangement,” the report stated.
Impact on Future ICC Events
India is scheduled to host several major ICC events in the coming years, including the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, the 2026 T20 World Cup (jointly with Sri Lanka), the 2029 Champions Trophy, and the 2031 ODI World Cup. The BCCI’s rejection of the PCB’s hybrid model conditions signals its intent to ensure these tournaments proceed without disruptions or conditional hosting arrangements.
Uncertain Future for the 2025 Champions Trophy
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has now become a point of contention, with the PCB reportedly threatening to withdraw from the tournament if their demands are not met. This stance could also lead to Pakistan losing its hosting rights if an amicable solution isn’t reached.
The ICC is working toward resolving the impasse and is expected to reconvene discussions in the coming days. A possible relocation of the Champions Trophy to a neutral venue remains on the table if the deadlock persists.
A Delicate Situation
This latest development adds to the growing strain between the two boards. While both parties have expressed their willingness to participate in ICC events, the differing approaches toward security and hosting arrangements continue to complicate matters.
The Board of Sports in India (BOSI) will provide further updates on the Champions Trophy and other cricketing developments as they unfold. Stay tuned for more.
