Karachi, December 19, 2024 – India will compete in next year’s ICC Champions Trophy matches on neutral grounds, following their refusal to travel to the host nation and arch-rival Pakistan. The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the decision on Thursday after weeks of deliberations.
“India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC events during the 2024-2027 rights cycle will be played at a neutral venue,” the ICC stated in an official release. This hybrid formula will be applied to the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan, as well as the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in India and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The ICC further confirmed that Pakistan has been awarded hosting rights for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, where neutral venue arrangements will also come into effect. Additionally, Cricket Australia is set to host one of the senior ICC women’s events during the 2029-2031 cycle.
The schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be finalized soon, with Pakistan aiming to defend the title they claimed in 2017. The eight-team tournament will feature Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and Pakistan as the host.
PCB Fully Prepared to Host Champions Trophy
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed the board’s readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy, stating that preparations are “well on track.” He made these remarks during the 76th meeting of the PCB Board of Governors held in Islamabad.
“The PCB’s focus from day one has been to ensure success for Pakistan and cricket,” Naqvi emphasized. “Our teams are working tirelessly to renovate and upgrade stadiums to meet international standards. All preparations will be completed well before the tournament.”
Naqvi’s stance on the ICC Champions Trophy received widespread praise from the Governing Board. “The people of Pakistan are excited to see international teams playing on home soil. Cricket should remain free from politics,” he added.
The meeting was attended by Governing Board members, PCB COO Sameer Ahmed, CFO Javed Murtaza, CEO PSL Salman Naseer, and other officials, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to hosting successful ICC events.