The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place under a hybrid model, with matches being hosted in both Pakistan and the UAE. This arrangement has been agreed upon by Pakistan, paving the way for a much-anticipated tournament. One of the key highlights includes the highly awaited India-Pakistan group stage match, scheduled for March 1 in Dubai. India will play all its matches in the UAE, including two knockout games.
An important ICC meeting, chaired by new chairman Jay Shah, was held in Dubai, where the hybrid model was officially finalized. All 15 board members, including representatives from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), approved the decision.
While the ICC has yet to confirm the venue officially, a detailed tournament schedule is expected to be released by December 7. The Champions Trophy will commence in February and run through March. Pakistan, the defending champions, won the title by defeating India in the 2017 final.
The tournament will feature a total of 15 matches among eight teams. Five matches, including India’s group stage games, one semi-final, and the final, will take place in the UAE, while the remaining 10 matches will be hosted in Pakistan. Despite some initial resistance, many of the PCB’s demands were ultimately rejected by the ICC. One notable request was for a tri-series involving India at a neutral venue, which was declined by both the ICC and the BCCI.
The PCB had also requested that future tournaments in India be held at neutral venues, citing concerns over hosting conditions. However, the BCCI assured that there were no security issues, leading to the rejection of this demand. Despite losing the hosting rights for five matches, the PCB secured financial compensation from the ICC.
Additionally, the PCB proposed separating Pakistan and India into different groups to allow Pakistan to host all its group matches at home. However, this idea was rejected by the ICC, BCCI, and broadcasters due to the significant viewership that an India-Pakistan match attracts. Consequently, both teams will clash on March 1 in Dubai, a match that is sure to capture global attention.
The PCB also sought an increase in its annual revenue share by 5.75% and requested that all major ICC events in India until 2031 adopt a hybrid model. Initially hesitant to agree to the hybrid format, the PCB eventually conceded after the BCCI maintained a firm stance, ensuring a compromise for the smooth conduct of the tournament.
With the schedule set to be finalized soon, excitement is building for the tournament, particularly for the India-Pakistan showdown, which remains a highlight of any international cricket event.
