The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly resolved the long-standing impasse over the 2025 Champions Trophy by approving a hybrid model for the tournament. Under this new arrangement, India’s matches will be played at a neutral venue in the eight-team event, which is set to be hosted by Pakistan. In exchange, Pakistan’s matches in any ICC event hosted by India during the 2024-2027 cycle will also be held at neutral venues.
According to ESPNcricinfo, which has seen the resolution details, the plan ensures that all India-Pakistan matches will adhere to the neutral venue principle in upcoming ICC events. This includes the 2025 men’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the 2025 women’s ODI World Cup in India, and the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The model may also extend to the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, which is set to be hosted by Pakistan.
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The ICC is also exploring the possibility of a triangular T20I series involving India, Pakistan, and another Asian Full Member nation, or even a quadrangular format with an Associate Member. These series, however, would also need to be played at neutral venues as part of the broader resolution.
Despite these reports, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that no final decision had been made regarding the Champions Trophy venue. He assured that a positive outcome for Pakistan would soon be announced, with the official schedule to follow once all matters are resolved.
