The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially resolved the long-standing debate over a neutral venue for India’s matches in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. On Sunday, the PCB announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host India’s games during the tournament, marking a pivotal moment in cricket diplomacy.
The decision was communicated to the International Cricket Council (ICC) following discussions between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This move comes in response to India’s steadfast refusal to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the marquee event, citing governmental restrictions.
With this development, the much-anticipated Champions Trophy will be conducted in a hybrid format. Matches involving India will be held at UAE venues, while the remainder of the tournament will proceed at designated locations in Pakistan.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed the board’s commitment to ensuring that cricket thrives despite political complexities. “We will ensure cricket does not suffer,” he emphasized while confirming the decision. His remarks followed the ICC’s formal announcement that neutral venues would host games involving India and Pakistan during the 2024-2027 broadcast rights cycle.
The ICC reiterated its stance in a statement: “India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC events during this cycle will be played at a neutral venue. This includes the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan.”
The agreement between the two cricket boards is reciprocal. Pakistan will play its matches at neutral venues during ICC tournaments hosted by India. This arrangement extends to major events such as the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka.
The PCB’s decision has been hailed as a pragmatic solution, ensuring the smooth conduct of the Champions Trophy while preserving the integrity of the tournament. By choosing the UAE, a proven host for international cricket, the PCB aims to maintain high standards and accommodate both players and fans.
This hybrid hosting model reflects the challenges and opportunities of modern cricket, balancing geopolitical sensitivities with the shared passion for the sport.