Champion Trophy's likely hybrid model revealed: Report
A proposed version of the hybrid model of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champion Trophy has come to light.
Indian cricket website Cricket Buzz has claimed that 15 matches have been scheduled for the event from February 19 to March 9, out of which Pakistan will host 10 matches and one semi-final. A proposal to shift five games, including the other semi-final and the final, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is under consideration.
If Pakistan accepts the hybrid model (which is unlikely), then broadcasters will have to face serious operational and logistical challenges. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may be given concessions and additional money if it accepts the proposal.
Reports say that bookings for venues, hotels and travel arrangements will also have to be made for a semi-final and a final.
The ICC is still not able to make a final decision on where India's matches should be held, while South Africa's name is also under consideration for hosting the Trophy, but the South African board has clearly refuted the reports.
In case the meeting decides on the basis of voting that the matches should be held under the hybrid model, it will be the first time that the tournament has been shifted to another place due to the non-participation of just one team from the event, there is no such example in the past.
14 members, including board members participating in the board of directors meeting, will be able to cast votes.
After this decision, Pakistan may withdraw from tournaments to be held in India, which include the Women's World Cup and Men's Asia Cup next year, as well as the T20 World Cup in 2026.