PCB Rejects Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy

Lahorer-(Tahir Chuhdary)-The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has refused to accept the hybrid model proposed for the Champions Trophy, insisting on a traditional format for the tournament.

According to sources, the International Cricket Council (ICC) had suggested a hybrid model, which would have included a combination of the traditional format and a new, experimental format. However, the PCB has rejected this proposal, citing concerns that it would compromise the integrity of the tournament.

The PCB’s stance has led to a stalemate, with the ICC and other participating boards yet to agree on a format for the Champions Trophy.

PCB officials have stated that they are willing to discuss alternative formats, but only if they align with the traditional format of the tournament.

The impasse has raised concerns about the future of the Champions Trophy, with some speculating that the tournament may be scrapped altogether if a format cannot be agreed upon.

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan, but India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan to play its matches in the country has thrown the event into uncertainty.

Pakistan, maintaining a resolute position, has reiterated that a hybrid model — where matches would be split across two venues — is not an acceptable option.

During the short ICC meeting and earlier interactions with the governing body’s leadership, Pakistan reaffirmed its stance, demanding that all the boards should be treated equally.

Sources added that both Pakistan and India are expected to consult their respective governments before finalizing any arrangements.

An ICC spokesperson confirmed the discussions, stating, “The board held a brief meeting today, and all members are committed to resolving the Champions Trophy issue amicably. Further meetings are planned in the coming days.”

Additional meetings on the Champions Trophy’s future are expected to continue over the weekend.

Meanwhile, BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla stated that the board is in discussions with the PCB and that the ICC is also working to find a solution to the matter.

“As far as our position is concerned, we will do what our government tells us to do,” he told reporters.

Earlier, India’s foreign office spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that the BCCI had cited security concerns over travelling to Pakistan.

“The BCCI has issued a statement. They have said that there are security concerns there, and therefore, it is unlikely that the team will be going,” Jaiswal said during a weekly press briefing on Friday.

This statement contradicts the BCCI’s earlier, albeit indirect, claim that the decision not to visit Pakistan was due to government restrictions, as the government’s official stance refers back to the BCCI’s statement.

However, as of Friday evening, there was no public statement from the BCCI.