Pakistan Cricket Board Rejects ‘Hybrid Model’ for Champions Trophy Hosting

Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has stated that Pakistan will not agree to a “hybrid model” for the upcoming Champions Trophy. This follows their encounter in Ahmedabad during the 2023 50-over World Cup, which India hosted. Pakistan is scheduled to host its first global tournament since 1996, an eight-team 50-over competition, set for February and March of next year. Nevertheless, due to ongoing political tensions between Pakistan and India, the two nations have not competed against each other outside of major tournaments for 11 years, and India has not toured Pakistan since 2008. Consequently, there is speculation that India’s matches could be held in a country other than Pakistan, with the United Arab Emirates being a potential alternative. PCB chair Naqvi commented, “Sports should stay above politics and cricket should not be sacrificed at the altar of politics.” The International Cricket Council (ICC) has not yet publicly commented on this situation and has not officially released the fixtures for the event. The tournament is scheduled to commence on 19 February, which is 100 days from Monday. The uncertainty surrounding the schedule is complicating planning efforts for participating teams, supporters, and media outlets. The competition consists of two groups of four teams, with the top two from each group progressing to the semi-finals. Should India’s matches be held outside Pakistan, there is a possibility that the semi-finals or final could require two venues separated by over 1,000 miles, with the ultimate location remaining undecided until India’s performance in the tournament is known. Regarding a potential objection from India to traveling to Pakistan, Naqvi stated, “Our stance is clear – they need to give us in writing any objections they may have.” He added, “Until now, no discussion of the hybrid model has happened, nor are we prepared to accept one. The Indian media are reporting it, but no formal communication has reached the PCB.” Naqvi further commented, “In case such situation occurs, I will approach my government and follow its directions.” Last year, Pakistan traveled to India to participate in the 50-over World Cup. However, when Pakistan hosted the Asia Cup in the same year, India played its matches in Sri Lanka. The idea of the Champions Trophy proceeding without India seems unfeasible, given cricket’s financial reliance on the nation. Richard Gould, chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board, stated last month: “If you play the Champions Trophy without India or Pakistan, the broadcast rights aren’t there, and we need to protect them.” He added, “There are a variety of different options available if those circumstances come along. This is a big moment for Pakistan, and hopefully we can have the fullest possible competition in Pakistan. If that’s not possible, we know there are options available.” England is set to participate in its first major tournament under new white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum. Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, and New Zealand are also among the competing nations.