Champions Trophy: PCB ready to follow hybrid model

In an apparent climb down from its earlier stated position, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is willing to make “adjustments” in the schedule of the 2025 Champions Trophy, which it is hosting, with matches involving India taking place in the UAE, according to sources.

It could mean that the tournament may be held in the ‘Hybrid Model’ as the Indian government is unlikely to allow its team to travel to Pakistan in the existing socio-political environment and security concerns for the national team. The last tournament that Pakistan hosted was the Asia Cup in 2023, conducted in a ‘Hybrid Model’ with India playing their matches in Sri Lanka.

“The PCB feels that slight adjustments can be made to the schedule, as in all probability India would play its matches in Dubai or Sharjah,” a source in the PCB said.