The stalemate over the Champions Trophy has been resolved; neither India nor Pakistan will play in the other’s country. The ICC Champions Trophy cricket controversy has come to an end. The International Cricket Council (ICC), the governing body of world cricket, has given the green light to Pakistan to host the tournament in 2025. Under the new arrangement, India will not travel to Pakistan, and similarly, Pakistan will not travel to India in the subsequent tournament.
It is noteworthy that India had refused under any circumstances to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy next year. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was adamant, initially opposing the hybrid model fiercely. They insisted that all matches must be held in Pakistan. Both boards rejected several ICC proposals, and no joint decision could be reached. Finally, a conditional hybrid model was proposed: if India doesn’t play in Pakistan, Pakistan won’t play in India either. Ultimately, both sides agreed to this proposal, resolving the deadlock. India will play all its matches in Dubai, while Pakistan’s matches in the 2026 T20 World Cup in India will be held in Colombo. Although ICC approved the hybrid model, PCB will not receive any financial compensation for it. However, in exchange, PCB was granted hosting rights for an ICC women’s tournament in Pakistan in 2027.
Key agreements between the two boards at a glance:
- The Champions Trophy will be held across three venues, with India playing its matches in Dubai.
- Pakistan will play its matches against India in Sri Lanka during the 2026 T20 World Cup.
- PCB will not receive any financial compensation for agreeing to the hybrid model.
- In return, PCB will host an ICC women’s tournament in Pakistan in 2027.
- ICC, BCCI, and PCB are satisfied with the agreement.
There were rumors that the upcoming Champions Trophy might switch from a 50-over format to T20. However, such a change is unlikely. It remains to be seen when the ICC announces the tournament schedule.
