Dubai (Web Desk): The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a groundbreaking approach for the 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, which will feature an innovative model that accommodates both the challenges of geopolitical relations and the demands of international cricket.
In a significant decision confirmed by the ICC Board, games between arch-rivals India and Pakistan will be played at neutral locations, rather than on their respective home turf.
The move is part of an overarching agreement that spans the 2024-2027 cycle of ICC events, ensuring that the tournament will be marked by a balance between competition and diplomacy.
This agreement impacts several key tournaments, including the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy, which will be hosted by Pakistan.
However, the venue for the high-profile clashes between India and Pakistan will not be in either country.
Instead, third-party nations, with approval from the ICC, will stage these encounters, ensuring fairness and minimizing any political tensions that may arise.
The decision to implement this model reflects the ICC’s broader aim to keep the focus on the game while mitigating external conflicts that can overshadow sporting events.
This neutral venue policy will also extend to other major ICC tournaments in the coming years. For instance, the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup will take place in India, while the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The neutral venue stipulation is expected to apply to some of the matches during these competitions as well, promoting an equitable environment for all participating teams.
Additionally, Pakistan will have the honour of hosting the 2028 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, but the arrangement regarding neutral venues will again be in place for certain key fixtures.
In a separate development, reports suggest that a unique triangular T20 series could be organized as a compromise solution, featuring India, Pakistan, and a third team, possibly from Asia or an Associate nation.
This series would take place at neutral sites, effectively filling the gap left by the inability of Pakistan to host India for the Champions Trophy. Such a move would not only ensure that the rivalry between India and Pakistan remains alive but also provide the teams with competitive opportunities, even if they are not able to play in their home countries.
The official schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which is slated to begin on February 19, remains uncertain.
The uncertainty stems from the complexities surrounding the selection of venues, but the ICC is expected to finalise and announce the details soon.
This hybrid approach marks a new chapter in how cricket's most prestigious events are organised, focusing on inclusivity and the preservation of sport amidst challenging political landscapes.
