The International Cricket Council (ICC) has endorsed a hybrid hosting model for the 2025 Champions Trophy, with Pakistan and Dubai sharing the tournament’s matches.
This decision follows an agreement between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
In a separate understanding for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Pakistan will not travel to India for their league-stage match against India. Instead, the high-profile clash will take place in Colombo.
While the PCB will not receive financial compensation for the arrangement, it has secured hosting rights for an ICC Women’s tournament after 2027.
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The Emirates Cricket Board is expected to play a significant role, with sources suggesting that Dubai will likely host India’s games. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi discussed the agreement with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who emphasised consulting the government before finalising plans.
The 2025 Champions Trophy will run from February 19 to March 9, featuring eight teams divided into two groups, followed by semifinals and the final.
The hybrid format mirrors the Men’s Asia Cup 2023 structure, where Pakistan hosted the tournament while India’s matches took place in Colombo.
Speculations about changing the format to T20 have been dismissed, with sources confirming the tournament will retain its 50-over structure to maintain its appeal.