PCB's bold take on Champions Trophy hosting rights, gives verdict on hybrid model for India matches

Champions Trophy 2025 hosts Pakistan give verdict on the hybrid model of the tournament citing India's stance for not travelling to neighbouring nations because of security concerns. Reportedly the tournament will be played between February 19 to March 9 next year. 

A report from IANS claimed that PCB have not opted for the hybrid model and all of the India matches will be played in Lahore because this will avoid their travel around the cities and the cricket board will take care of security. 

“We have not opted for the hybrid model. However, we have given this leverage that India’s matches can be played in Lahore only. This way, the team will not be required to move around cities within Pakistan and its security can be well maintained in Lahore”,a source in the PCB told IANS.

Team India last travelled to Pakistan in 2005-06 before the 2008 Mumbai attacks led to the suspension of India's planned tour of Pakistan in 2009.
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“India can be based in Lahore for the entire tournament. This would minimise logistical and security complications associated with their travel between cities”, the source added.

The PCB source also explained that playing in Lahore would be convenient for Indian fans as well because the venue is near the Wagah border. 

“The proximity of Lahore to Wagah Border crossing is also going to be more suitable for the Indian fans. However, the question remains, if India would accept and participate in the event”, the PCB source said.

Earlier, Pakistan were the original host of the Asia Cup which was held in 2023. Which was later played in the hybrid model, where India played their matches in Sri Lanka and emerged as the Asian Champions defeating Sri Lanka in the final. 

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be the first major international cricket tournament hosted solely by Pakistan. Previously, Pakistan had co-hosted 1996 Cricket World Cup with India and Sri Lanka and before that co-hosted the Reliance Cup with India in 1987.
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