Champions Trophy Saga Nears Closure
The long-drawn debate surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 is likely to conclude soon. Sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggest that a resolution is expected during a crucial ICC Board meeting on Saturday, December 14.
This meeting, convened to finalize the tournament’s future, will see ICC Chairman Jay Shah joining virtually from Brisbane, where he is attending an Olympic-related engagement. The settlement reportedly reflects consensus among the ICC, BCCI, and PCB after weeks of intense discussions and negotiations.
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Hybrid Model Proposed for Champions Trophy 2025
According to reports, Pakistan will retain the official hosting rights for the Champions Trophy but will conduct the event in a hybrid format. Out of the 15 matches, five games, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash, are expected to be played in a second host country, most likely the UAE.
This hybrid model resolves a major sticking point, though it remains unclear if the BCCI has agreed to a reciprocal arrangement for ICC events held in India. Some form of middle ground has reportedly been achieved, but the BCCI is unlikely to provide any written assurances, which was a key concern for the PCB.
BCCI’s Hosting Commitments and PCB’s Concessions
India is slated to host several major cricketing events, including:
- 2024 Women’s ODI World Cup
- 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup (co-hosted with Sri Lanka)
- 2024 Men’s Asia Cup
For Pakistan, retaining hosting rights for the Champions Trophy was a matter of national pride. Reports suggest the PCB might be granted monetary compensation and potentially awarded a global ICC women’s event during the 2027-31 cycle as part of the resolution.
PCB Chief’s Concerns Addressed
PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi, who has publicly voiced his opposition to the hybrid model, appears to have had his concerns addressed in the final agreement. While the details remain under wraps, Pakistan’s compromise on the hybrid model may allow the PCB to present the outcome as a win, highlighting adequate compensation and recognition.
Final Approval Pending
These backchannel agreements now await formal approval during Saturday’s ICC Board meeting. This expected resolution could mark the end of a contentious saga, setting the stage for a smoother execution of the Champions Trophy 2025.