The protracted dispute between the BCCI and the PCB regarding the hosting rights for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has finally reached a resolution, as the ICC has clarified the tournament's structure. India will conduct its matches at a neutral venue, resulting in a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy, despite the PCB's objections. However, the PCB has secured a concession, as their teams will also compete at neutral venues in tournaments organized by India during the current ICC cycle leading up to the 2027 men’s ODI World Cup.

Pakistan firmly opposed the demands put forth by the BCCI and the Indian government. Nevertheless, former Pakistan cricketer and captain Javed Miandad expressed his approval of the outcome, noting that the PCB successfully negotiated a favourable arrangement in recent discussions.

In an interview with PTI, Miandad praised the PCB's strategy, highlighting their ability to reach a rational and diplomatic resolution despite the initial backlash over India's refusal to play in Pakistan for the first time since 2008. 

“I believe the PCB adopted a prudent approach, avoiding rash actions that could lead to isolation within the ICC and among other cricketing nations,” Miandad remarked to PTI. “They chose a path that, in my view, has allowed the PCB to achieve more than the BCCI.”

Pakistan earn neutral venue allowance for upcoming tournaments

Pakistan's teams are set to compete at neutral venues during the Women's ODI World Cup in 2025, which will be exclusively hosted by India in September and October of the upcoming year. Additionally, they will also play at a neutral venue during the Men's T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, as India aims to defend its title in that tournament.

Pakistan previously visited India for the 2023 ODI World Cup, participating in Indian territory after extensive discussions surrounding the matter. This included a notable rivalry match against India in Ahmedabad.

Miandad praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for maintaining its stance and not yielding to the more dominant cricket board, thereby upholding its principles as it prepares to host a significant ICC tournament for the first time in nearly three decades. "Pakistan is still hosting a major event after a long period, and we have conveyed a clear message that if you do not come and play in our country, we will also refrain from playing in India," Miandad concluded.

Pakistan aims to defend its 2017 title with the return of the Champions Trophy after a break, as the eight highest-ranked men's ODI teams will compete in the tournament commencing in February 2025.

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