By Sidra Hassan
Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of its decision to reject the proposed hybrid model for hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy.
According to sources, ahead of the ICC Board of Directors meeting scheduled for Friday, PCB conveyed its firm stance on retaining sole hosting rights and refusing to share the tournament with any other country.
PCB insiders emphasized that if the ICC has any viable solution, it should be communicated before the meeting to allow Pakistan to participate with proper preparation and reach a conclusive decision. “It is unacceptable for the Pakistani team to play in India while the Indian team refuses to tour Pakistan,” the sources added.
Broadcasters Oppose Separate Groups for Pakistan and India
Meanwhile, discussions regarding placing Pakistan and India in separate groups have faced opposition from broadcasters due to their commercial interests in high-profile matches.
Earlier, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, in a late-night press conference, reiterated that all decisions will be made in the best interest of Pakistan cricket, ensuring a strong team is fielded for the tournament.
BCCI Pushing for Hybrid Model
On the other hand, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly using its media channels to pressure the ICC to either strip Pakistan of its hosting rights or force acceptance of the hybrid model. The BCCI is citing recent political protests in Islamabad and the cancellation of Sri Lanka A team’s tour as security concerns.
The upcoming ICC meeting is expected to be pivotal in determining the future of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
