Dubai: A ‘hybrid model’ could host the next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan, as India’s participation remains uncertain due to potential government opposition, according to a source within the ICC’s executive board who spoke with the news agency PTI on Friday.
The ongoing ICC board meeting in Dubai is discussing various matters, although the Champions Trophy scheduled for February-March 2025 is not officially on the agenda. However, newly-elected PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi intends to engage with his BCCI counterpart Jay Shah and ICC officials on the sidelines, seeking reassurance.
Despite this, a member of the ICC Board, familiar with the discussions, suggests that any decision regarding India’s participation would likely be deferred until closer to the tournament. Additionally, the possibility of using the UAE as an alternative venue cannot be ruled out.
The veteran administrator, who has attended numerous board meetings, highlighted that if a member nation’s government prohibits participation, the ICC would need to seek an alternative venue. He emphasized the ICC’s stance, stating, “…it doesn’t expect its members to go against any policy/instructions issued by its own government.”
Teams from England, Australia, and New Zealand have recently toured Pakistan, putting pressure on the BCCI to consider participating in the multi-nation event.
Addressing concerns about India’s stance leading to a vote against the country, a source clarified that such a situation would not arise if there is a government directive.
The ‘Hybrid Model’
“Diplomacy may play a crucial role,” suggested the former BCCI office-bearer, acknowledging the higher threat perception for the Indian cricket team compared to teams from other countries.
Reflecting on past events, such as the Indian Davis Cup team’s visit to Islamabad and Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup in India, the source speculated that the Indian government might adopt a softer stance for a global event like the Champions Trophy.
The Champions Trophy, originally known as the ‘Mini World Cup’, features the top eight teams in the ICC ODI Rankings. The last edition took place in 2017 in England and Wales, with subsequent scheduling challenges.
In 2023, due to India’s travel restrictions, a ‘Hybrid Model’ was adopted, with matches played in Sri Lanka. With suitable cricketing conditions in the UAE during February and March and three international stadiums available, a similar hybrid approach could be considered for the upcoming tournament.
In a hybrid model, India’s matches, including those against Pakistan, could potentially be held in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
