The standoff between Pakistan and India has affected the sports, particularly cricket after India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for playing tournament. India refused to visit Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025 which was scheduled to held in Pakistan.

After India’s refusal, Pakistan wrote to ICC to seek reasons for not travelling to Pakistan

Foreign media claimed that ICC has convinced PCB to opt hybrid model and avoid making statements against BCCI.

This development comes before the announcement of the schedule of the Champions Trophy. It is anticipated that schedule will be announced by November 20.

Pakistan is set to host the event from February 19 to March 9.

The political conflicts between the two neighbours have stopped India from visiting Pakistan since 2008. It is worthy to note that India played all their matches in Sri Lanka under a ‘hybrid model’ during the last year’s Asia Cup.

Earlier, the ICC told PCB that the Board of Control for Cricket in India had officially communicated that India would not participate in the eight-nation tournament.

Sources stated that the ICC had informed all cricket boards about the “significant financial losses” in the wake of India’s disassociation from the event. The PCB has also been made aware of the financial repercussions of not hosting events in Pakistan.

According to sources, the ICC officials noted that adopting the hybrid model “is currently the best option” for the Champions Trophy.

The ICC is mulling over forming a schedule for the hybrid model with the consultation of several cricket boards. The PCB is also part of the discussion.

Also read: Pakistan is committed to host Champions Trophy, asserts Mohsin Naqvi

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed, despite India’s refusal, the Champions Trophy 2025 would be held in Pakistan.

Responding to a question, he said: “We wrote a letter and await a response. We only have interaction with ICC and are awaiting its response.”