Dubai, November 29, 2024– Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has conveyed Pakistan’s firm stance to the International Cricket Council (ICC), rejecting the proposed hybrid model for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Naqvi stressed that India must play matches in Pakistan, dismissing any alternative proposals for neutral venues.
During high-level talks with ICC CEO Geoff Allardice and senior officials in Dubai, Naqvi made it clear that the Pakistani government has disallowed the hybrid model. He emphasized that progress in discussions should align with the interests of cricket and ICC member nations.
Naqvi, consulting legal experts, demanded that India provide official documentation outlining concrete reasons for not visiting Pakistan. “Without a legitimate letter from the Indian government justifying their refusal, no alternative reasoning will be accepted,” he asserted.
He also urged the ICC to present an acceptable format for the tournament before the board meeting, which will take place online today at 3 PM Pakistan time.
PCB sources revealed that Naqvi rejected any suggestion of playing Pakistan-India matches at neutral venues under the hybrid model. He warned that adopting such a model would set a precedent, meaning Pakistan would also refuse to travel to India for future events.
The Champions Trophy holds significant financial implications for Pakistan. The PCB is set to receive $6 million in hosting rights, alongside additional revenue from ticket sales and hospitality. However, the board will incur $1.2 to $1.3 million in insurance premiums for the tournament.
The ICC annually disburses two payments of $13 million to Pakistan in January and July, while India receives 38% of ICC’s annual revenue, totalling $90-95 million. PCB sources cited Zimbabwe’s exclusion from the 2009 T20 World Cup due to visa issues, noting that Zimbabwe still received its financial share despite non-participation.
Speaking to the media before his Dubai departure, Naqvi reaffirmed that the Champions Trophy would take place in Pakistan and noted ongoing renovations at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The project, which began in October, is 70% complete and will expand capacity to 35,000-40,000 spectators.
Naqvi expressed regret over delays in upgrading Rawalpindi Stadium, saying, “Had I received the report earlier, we could have achieved better results.” He assured that Pakistan would emerge with favorable outcomes from the ICC meeting.
While the PCB remains resolute in rejecting the hybrid model, Naqvi clarified that any final decision would adhere to government directives. Should the ICC pressure Pakistan to accept the hybrid model, the PCB will seek government approval. For now, Pakistan remains firm in its stance that the Champions Trophy must take place on home soil with full participation, including India.
