India and Pakistan Agree on Hybrid Model for ICC Events

In a significant development for international cricket, India and Pakistan have reached a consensus on a hybrid model for ICC events from 2024-2027. The agreement marks a significant thaw in their longstanding cricketing rivalry, allowing for a more harmonious coexistence between the two nations at the international level.

Under the terms of the agreement, India and Pakistan will play each other at neutral venues for certain matches outside of their respective countries. This arrangement will apply to key events such as the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the 2025 women's ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 men's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 women's T20 World Cup in Pakistan. The host country will be responsible for selecting the neutral venues, which will need to be approved by the ICC.

The UAE and Sri Lanka have been cited as potential neutral venues for future matches. The agreement also paves the way for a tri-series or quadrangular T20I tournament involving India, Pakistan, and another Asian team, with neutral venue arrangements applying as per the terms of the agreement. The PCB will retain hosting rights for all events covered under the arrangement.

This latest development marks a step forward in strengthening ties between India and Pakistan, and comes ahead of key international events that will see the two nations face off against each other. The full schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy will be announced soon, and ticket booking is expected to start soon after. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the event, which promises to bring the best of cricketing action and a unique opportunity for rival nations to engage in a celebration of the sport they both love.