Ex-Pakistan skipper reveals agreement between India, Pakistan, and the International Cricket Board on this issue

As per ex-Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif, the Champions Series 2025 will be played in a hybrid model. He stated that an agreement has been signed between the boards of India and Pakistan and the International Cricket Board regarding the Indian cricket team’s unavailability in Pakistan for their respective matches, which will be conducted in Dubai. 

“The apex body of international cricket and the two boards have agreed to go ahead with a hybrid model,” Latif said. “The PCB will not be stripped of the hosting rights, but India will play their games in a different country. A semi-final and the final would be played outside Pakistan if India make it to the knockout stage.”

The eight-team tournament has been scheduled to take place in February and March next year. Still, the Indian Cricket Board refused to play in Pakistan after the Indian government declined to provide them a No Objection Certificate, citing security concerns. The International Cricket Board officials will meet on Friday to discuss the final format and schedule of the marquee event. 

Mohsin Naqvi, who heads the Pakistan Cricket Council, expressed his desire to hold the complete tournament in the country. But Rashid Latif, reacting to Mohsin’s stance, said, “If I were the head of the Pakistan Cricket Board, I would have said the same thing. We had the same situation in last year’s Asia Cup, where it was played in a hybrid model. 

“The International Cricket Board will give around $64-65 million to the Pakistan Cricket Council as a hosting fee. Pakistan might earn more money if they agree to the hybrid model. I don’t think Pakistan will say no. The Pakistan Cricket Council and the International Cricket Board will soon make an announcement.