PCB Confirms Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy, Agreement Expected Soon
Dubai: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the conditions for the Champions Trophy have been accepted, and the event will be held under a hybrid model. PCB sources stated that the agreement on the hybrid model is expected to be signed within the next day or two, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) set to make an official announcement.
According to the sources, PCB did not demand any additional compensation for the tournament. Earlier, Indian media reported that the ICC had approved the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy after obtaining consent from both Pakistan and India.
Under the hybrid model, most of Pakistan’s proposals have been accepted, and both parties have agreed that the Pakistan team will not travel to India for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. Additionally, a Pakistan-India match will be held in Colombo.
The decision also stipulates that India will not travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with their group-stage matches to be played in Dubai.
As per the new arrangement, India insists on Dubai as the venue, while Pakistan is negotiating with Dubai, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka for five of the tournament’s matches.
Sources also revealed that the ICC had offered Pakistan compensation for shifting matches, but PCB Chairman, Najam Sethi, chose not to discuss additional compensation. However, in exchange, Pakistan successfully secured the hosting rights for the ICC Women’s Tournament in 2027.
Sources further stated that the three-year hybrid model for the Champions Trophy is expected to be formally approved by the ICC tomorrow, following which an official announcement will be made.
