The long-standing deadlock over the 2025 Champions Trophy has been resolved with a hybrid hosting model. India will not travel to Pakistan but will play their group matches, one semifinal, and the final (if qualified) in Dubai, UAE. Meanwhile, Pakistan will host 10 matches, including one semifinal, under the PCB’s hosting rights.
In return, Pakistan has secured a significant concession for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Pakistan cricket team will not travel to India and will instead play their league matches in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This arrangement will extend until 2027.
The ICC has also awarded Pakistan the right to host a women’s ICC tournament between 2027 and 2031. However, PCB will not receive additional financial compensation for hosting some Champions Trophy matches in Dubai.
India and Pakistan are placed in Group A with Bangladesh and New Zealand, while Group B features Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. The tournament will run from February 19 to March 9. The final schedule is expected after the ICC’s meeting with the BCCI and PCB.
This agreement is seen as a significant breakthrough in cricket diplomacy between the two nations.
