ISLAMABAD: In a major development, Pakistan and India have informally agreed on a mutual hybrid model to resolve their long-standing cricket standoff.
The official announcement is expected during the ICC Board meeting on December 7, a major step forward for international cricket.
Reliable sources have revealed that the agreement came as a result of a high-level meeting between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi and ICC chairman Jay Shah, who took over recently. The meeting held in Dubai on Thursday laid the foundation for a hybrid model that the two countries will follow until 2027.
According to the initial understanding, India will play all their matches in Dubai, while Pakistan will have the freedom to choose their venue when it is their turn to play in India.
Pakistan will not travel to India and will instead play their matches in Sri Lanka, co-hosts of the event. If India or Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals or finals of any tournament, these matches will be played at neutral venues.
It is not yet clear whether the same formula will be applied to the Women’s World Cup scheduled in India next year.
To address potential financial challenges, the two officials discussed innovative solutions, including holding trilateral tournaments between the two countries at neutral venues.
Sources say Jay Shah pushed for an early resolution as the Champions Trophy 2025 – scheduled to begin on February 19 – will be his first major event under the ICC chairmanship.
While the hybrid model represents a significant advance, certain aspects of the hosting formula are up for debate. “By the time the ICC board meets, all outstanding issues are expected to be finalised,” a source confirmed.