Champions Trophy 2025 To Feature Hybrid Model With India Playing Matches In Dubai

Reports suggest that the Champions Trophy 2025 will adopt a hybrid model, a decision made ahead of the ICC Board meeting on Friday, November 29. This move follows a long-standing dispute between the cricket boards of India and Pakistan. India has refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stated that it will not send its team to Pakistan without clearance from the External Affairs Ministry. This stance has caused significant unrest in Pakistan. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has expressed a desire to host the entire tournament domestically, but other members seem opposed. The political unrest in Pakistan, fueled by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, raises additional security issues.

Under this hybrid arrangement, India's matches, including the high-profile clash against Pakistan, will take place in Dubai. The semi-finals are split between Lahore and Dubai. The final is planned for Dubai, with Lahore as an alternative if India doesn't qualify.

The ongoing civil unrest in Pakistan is a major reason why the PCB may struggle to assure other board members about safety and security for visiting teams. This situation complicates efforts to host all matches within Pakistan.

To support this hybrid model, the PCB will receive a 30% increase in hosting rights fees. This financial boost aims to address logistical and operational challenges associated with the model. Sources reveal that PCB has accepted this structure but insists on a similar approach for the T20 World Cup 2026 in India.

While the hybrid model is approved for the Champions Trophy, extending it to the T20 World Cup in India remains under consideration. The ICC plans to discuss this at their upcoming meeting, though a decision might be postponed.

CT 2025: Schedule Announcement Imminent

The schedule for Champions Trophy 2025 is expected soon, either by Saturday night (November 30) or Monday (December 2). This announcement will clarify match dates and venues for fans. The upcoming ICC board meeting is crucial as it precedes Jay Shah's appointment as chairperson on December 6.