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Champions Trophy 2025 To Shift In Hybrid Model! India Picks Neutral Venue: Reports

Akshita Patel

Champions Trophy 2025 venue likely to be changed [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]Champions Trophy 2025 venue likely to be changed [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]

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In a significant development, the Champions Trophy 2025, originally scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan, is likely to be shifted into a hybrid model. As per PTI, Team India will play their games at a neutral venue in UAE as government clearance for safe travel to Pakistan is unlikely to be issued.

Pakistan’s preparations to host the Champions Trophy 2025 are in full swing, with major venues, including Gaddafi Stadium and Multan Stadium, getting renovated under PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s supervision. However, the schedule for the same is yet to be out as India’s participation hangs in the balance. 

India to play Champions Trophy at neutral venue

The political relations between India and Pakistan ceased to exist following a terrorist attack in Mumbai in 2008. The two teams only meet in ICC events, and due to safety issues, the Indian government is unlikely to give a travel clearance to Team India to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

Hence, given the complexity of the matter and unavoidable circumstances, PTI reported that Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be shifted into a hybrid model with India playing all its matches in UAE. Finals and other knockout games are also expected to move out of Pakistan as fans await a final word from the ICC.

Notably, BCCI secretary Jay Shah is set to take over as ICC chairman on December 1, and a final call on Team India’s participation is expected within that time frame.

PCB, Rizwan makes desperate plea to pacify India

In a bid to convince India to travel to Pakistan, PCB promised to speed up the visa process for Indian fans who wish to travel to Pakistan to attend the Champions Trophy 2025 games. Besides, Pakistan’s white-ball format captain, Mohammad Rizwan, also assured team India of superior hospitality and an extremely safe environment. However, the ball remains in the government’s court as BCCI's hands are tied on the grounds of player safety.