ICC confirms Pakistan as Champions Trophy host amid India-Pakistan tensions

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially named Pakistan as the host for the 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place from February to March next year. The announcement, accompanied by a new visual identity for the men's and women's Champions Trophy tournaments, comes amid escalating diplomatic concerns, as India’s government has expressed reluctance to send its cricket team to Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has relayed this stance to the ICC and proposed a hybrid model, allowing India to play its matches outside Pakistan.

ICC releases visual identity, affirms Pakistan’s host status

The ICC’s latest video showcases Pakistan as the official venue for the Champions Trophy, highlighting cultural landmarks like Lahore’s Shahi Qila and unique elements of Pakistani truck art. An ICC statement describes the Champions Trophy as a "thrilling two-week competition" with top teams competing in a tournament format where "every match counts." The men’s event, returning for the first time since 2017, will see eight teams competing for the white jackets awarded to champions, while the newly introduced women's Champions Trophy, set for 2027 in Sri Lanka, will adopt the T20 format with six teams competing.

In its statement, the ICC added, "The Champions Trophy will now occur every two years, alternating between a men’s ODI tournament and a women’s T20 event, bringing intense competition and historic moments as teams battle for the iconic white jackets."

ICC reveals Logo and Brand Identity for Champions Trophy. pic.twitter.com/ckJN5vZZT6

— Ragav 𝕏 (@ragav_x) November 13, 2024

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India’s hybrid model proposal sparks diplomacy and debate

The BCCI’s hybrid model proposal is aimed at enabling India to participate in the tournament without crossing borders into Pakistan. However, the Pakistan government has reportedly directed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) not to relocate any games outside Pakistan. The tension surrounding this arrangement continues as the PCB and BCCI seek a resolution. Despite the ongoing discussions, the ICC’s promotional video reinforces Pakistan’s position as host, underscoring the anticipation for the nation to welcome international teams after nearly a decade.

Pakistan is the reigning champion of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, having defeated India in a memorable final in 2017 in the UK. With the tournament's return, cricket fans and players alike are eager to witness the unfolding of one of cricket’s premier events. The inclusion of the first-ever women’s Champions Trophy in 2027 marks a significant step for the ICC’s commitment to elevating women’s cricket on the global stage, offering both excitement and opportunity for players worldwide.