The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, originally planned in Pakistan, may be moved to South Africa if the hybrid model option with UAE doesn’t work, following India’s refusal to tour.
ICC 2025 Champions Trophy: Hybrid Model or Shift to South Africa
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is facing a potential venue shift from Pakistan to South Africa, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) exploring alternatives after India’s decision to avoid travel to Pakistan.Â
This development arises from India’s government stance on security, disallowing the Indian cricket team to cross the border for the tournament.Â
In response, the ICC has proposed a hybrid model where Pakistan would host the bulk of the matches, with India’s games taking place in Dubai, UAE.
Hybrid Model Proposal and Challenges
The hybrid model would allow Pakistan to maintain hosting rights, enabling them to hold most games domestically while India’s matches occur in Dubai.
This arrangement is similar to the one used in the 2023 Asia Cup. While this offers a diplomatic solution, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed reservations about the hybrid approach, desiring to host all games on home turf to mark its first ICC tournament in nearly three decades.
The ICC, therefore, awaits PCB’s final stance on the proposal.
Potential Shift to South Africa
If Pakistan rejects the hybrid model, the ICC could transfer the Champions Trophy entirely to South Africa. Reports suggest that this contingency plan has sparked discussions in Pakistan’s cricketing and political circles.
In a related move, Pakistan is reportedly considering legal options, including taking India to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, to contest India’s influence over ICC decisions.
Meanwhile, a potential shift to South Africa would provide a neutral ground, minimizing diplomatic complexities.
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