The International Cricket Council (ICC) has finally addressed the long-standing anticipation of fans by endorsing a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy scheduled for next year, which will take place in Pakistan. Under this hybrid arrangement, India will compete against Pakistan at a neutral venue during the tournament. In an official announcement, the ICC clarified that matches involving India and Pakistan, when hosted by either nation, will be conducted at a neutral location during the rights cycle from 2024 to 2027.

The forthcoming Champions Trophy is set to occur in Pakistan, while India had previously expressed reluctance to travel to the country for the event due to security issues. Initially, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had dismissed the idea of a hybrid model but later agreed to the use of neutral venues for both teams in ICC competitions.

What does the new hybrid model mean for India?

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra commented on the ICC's recent announcement, suggesting that it presents a favourable situation for Pakistan while also clarifying its implications for India. He noted that both nations have been treated equitably, stating, “Pakistan is not incurring financial losses. In fact, under this arrangement, Pakistan has maintained its dignity. Despite their criticisms of the Hybrid Model, they ultimately consented to it and have not left empty-handed.”

He further remarked, “It is now nearly certain that the arrangement will be reciprocal. All matches until 2027 will adhere to the Hybrid Model. If India does not travel to Pakistan, then Pakistan will likewise refrain from playing in India. Instead, Pakistan will conduct its matches in a neutral venue.”

The hybrid model will also encompass next year's Women's World Cup, which is set to take place in India, as well as the men's T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Looking ahead to the next cycle, Pakistan is scheduled to host the inaugural tournament, the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, although it remains uncertain whether the hybrid model will be implemented during that event.

The most recent edition of the Champions Trophy occurred in 2017 in England and Wales, where Pakistan triumphed over India in the final by a margin of 180 runs.

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