By Zainab Shafiq 
The ICC has reached a crucial resolution regarding the 2025 Champions Trophy, adopting a hybrid model to settle venue disputes between India and Pakistan. According to the agreement, matches involving India in ICC events hosted by Pakistan, such as the Champions Trophy, will be played at neutral venues. In return, matches involving Pakistan in ICC events hosted by India will also shift to neutral venues.
The deal was sealed through an ICC board vote that finally cleared up the event cycle for 2024–2027. The hybrid model will be implemented in all matches featuring India and Pakistan, including knockout games like semifinals or finals.
Hybrid Model Accepted for Champions Trophy and Other ICC Events Till 2027
The resolution will start with the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, where the PCB will present a neutral venue for India’s games within 24 hours of the resolution. The UAE and Sri Lanka are the front-runners for the hosting rights, and the PCB will maintain the full hosting rights for the event. The hybrid model will also be used for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India and the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The impact of such an agreement on future happenings such as the women’s T20 World Cup scheduled in 2028 to take place in Pakistan stands as another key feature. Further, the resolution ensures that the possibility of a tri-series or quadrangular T20I contest between India and Pakistan remains open and available for Asian teams. So, should such a tournament take place, matches between India and Pakistan will, as always, comply with the neutral venue agreements.
The breakthrough comes after weeks of intense negotiations involving the PCB, BCCI, and ICC, along with approvals from both governments. Political tensions between the two nations had complicated discussions, but both sides have agreed to equitable terms. The resolution has been hailed as a relief for stakeholders, as it ensures the Champions Trophy will proceed without further uncertainty.
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