PCB refuses to accept hybrid model for India. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked ICC to provide them in writing from BCCI and India that they are unable to play the Champions Trophy in Pakistan for valid reasons.
ICC told PCB that BCCI would not be traveling to Pakistan to play in the Champion’s Trophy as the Indian Government did not allow them to. The tournament is scheduled to be played at three venues in Pakistan from February 9th. However, PCB wants it in writing from the BCCI that they are unable to attend, as well as the justification.
PCB stands firm on the decision not to adopt the hybrid model to accommodate India. PCB was forced to adopt a ‘hybrid model’ in Asia Cup 2023 last year. Pakistan had even agreed to travel to India for the World Cup. The decision was taken after consultation with the government. PCB hoping that India will reciprocate the gesture by allowing its team to visit Pakistan for the Champion’s Trophy 2025.
Now with the involvement of the Government of Pakistan, the decision to adopt a hybrid model and whether to play India in the tournament is directly in the hands of the government and not the PCB.
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PCB argued that the hosting rights for the Champion’s Trophy 2025 were awarded to Pakistan three years ago. No objections were raised at that time or have been raised. PCB was to provide a progress report to ICC’s board meeting in October with the plan to launch a 100-day launch event on November 11th.
Reports claim PCB may withdraw from Champion’s Trophy in case the tournament’s hosting rights are stripped of the country in the wake of India’s refusal to travel across the border for it.
“In such a case, one of the options the government is mulling is that of asking the PCB to ensure Pakistan doesn’t participate in the Champions Trophy,” a source said, adding that the federal government was looking at the issue “seriously”, reported Dawn News.