Will the Champions Trophy 2025 move out from Pakistan? Chances are slim, as recently ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice clarified that there are no plans to relocate the Champions Trophy 2025 from Pakistan. However, there are indications that the tournament may follow a hybrid model. This situation is emerging due to India’s reluctance to visit Pakistan for the tournament.
If India refuses to participate, the ICC may consider a hybrid option, as the absence of India could result in a significant financial loss for the ICC. Pakistan, which has not hosted an ICC tournament since the 1996 World Cup, expects a substantial monetary gain from the Champions Trophy, which could boost several major aspects. But what will happen if the ICC opts for a hybrid model for the tournament?
Will India go to Pakistan for Champions Trophy?
As mentioned, nothing is clear yet regarding whether India will go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. The question is, what will happen to the PCB, which is expecting a significant financial gain from the competition If the tournament matches are shifted to another venue?, well it will result in a loss for the PCB. Recently sorts of similar situation occurred in Bangladesh, where, due to disturbances in the country, Womens T20 World Cup is shifted to UAE.
However, Bangladesh still holds the hosting rights, and the BCB is renting the Dubai International Cricket Stadium and Sharjah Cricket Stadium. If the PCB opts for a hybrid model, we can expect the same venue rental solution, which would bring financial losses to the PCB.
What is the hybrid model in cricket?
For cricket fans who are unaware of the hybrid model, it is essentially a setup where games are held in neutral locations if one country refuses to play in another country due to security or diplomatic issues. We saw this in the 2023 Asia Cup, which was originally scheduled to take place in Pakistan. However, due to India’s reluctance, the games were moved to Sri Lanka.
What if India doesn’t play Champions Trophy?
Now If India decides to withdraw from the Champions Trophy 2025, then the ICC would have to include another team, as this tournament requires eight teams to participate. Based on ICC rankings, Sri Lanka would replace India if the Men in Blue don’t participate.
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