The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have agreed to play future matches under a hybrid model for ICC tournaments. This decision follows extensive dialogue and is expected to facilitate the hosting of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year.
The decision was made after the International Cricket Council (ICC) urged both boards to find common ground. The agreement comes after the Indian government refused to allow its team to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
PCB Demands Equal Application of the Model
The PCB agreed to the hybrid model with a caveat. It stressed that Pakistan would expect the same arrangement for its team when tournaments are held in India over the next three years. The final decision awaits ICC Board approval to ensure the model is implemented uniformly.
Shift in PCB’s Stance
Initially, the PCB opposed the hybrid model, particularly after Pakistan participated in the ODI World Cup in India last year. It expected a reciprocal gesture from India for the Champions Trophy, marking Pakistan’s first ICC-hosted tournament since co-hosting the 1996 ODI World Cup.
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ICC Urges Mutual Agreement
The ICC requested both boards to resolve the matter independently before the governing body’s decision. An ICC meeting scheduled for Friday was postponed to Saturday, but discussions between the PCB and BCCI further delayed the announcement.
The meeting may now take place after Tuesday due to UAE National Day holidays.
No Security Letter Provided by India
The PCB asked the BCCI to present an official letter from the Indian government citing security concerns for not sending its team to Pakistan. However, no such document was produced.
Backdoor discussions revealed that India had already approved the PCB’s Master Security Plan for the Champions Trophy during an ICC meeting on October 21. This weakened India’s position if the case were to escalate to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Pakistan Eyes Larger ICC Revenue Share
The PCB may push for a greater share of ICC earnings, arguing that India’s revenue dominance stems largely from matches involving the two arch-rivals. Pakistan is expected to raise this issue with the ICC once the Champions Trophy arrangements are finalized.
India’s Influence on ICC Decisions
India remains the ICC’s most influential member, receiving a significant share of the council’s income. The PCB’s willingness to cooperate on the hybrid model could strengthen its case for fair revenue distribution in future tournaments.
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