Dubai May Host India’s Champions Trophy Games as ICC Looks at Hybrid Model: Report

The last time Pakistan hosted a global ICC event was in 1996 for the World Cup. As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, reports about the tournament being held in Pakistan are gaining attention. Initially, there were rumors that India might travel to Pakistan for the event, but BCCI Vice-President later clarified that no decision had been made. According to a report in The Express Tribune, the ICC is considering holding India’s matches in Dubai instead.

The issue arises from India’s reluctance to tour Pakistan, a country they haven’t visited for 16 years, with their last visit being for the Asia Cup 2008. The ICC is expected to make a final decision during its annual conference in Colombo from July 19-22. The report mentioned a ‘contingency budget’ if matches are relocated. Dubai is emerging as a potential venue.

If this hybrid model is adopted, matches could be split between Karachi and Dubai to facilitate easier travel. Lahore and Rawalpindi are also being considered as possible venues. This situation is similar to last year’s Asia Cup, where India refused to travel to Pakistan. Their matches were hosted in Sri Lanka instead. If the hybrid model is used for the Champions Trophy, Pakistan could face revenue losses. This would be especially true if India’s progression moves the semifinals and finals out of Pakistan.

Reports suggest that India and Pakistan will be placed in Group A alongside New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B will feature Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. This grouping is expected to add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.