Understanding ICC's new hybrid model: Aakash Chopra clarifies Pakistan's financial position

The upcoming Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, but India has expressed concerns about traveling to the country for the event due to security reasons. The Pakistan Cricket Board initially denied the possibility of using neutral venues for matches involving India, but eventually decided to adopt a hybrid model for ICC competitions to accommodate both teams.

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra weighed in on ICC’s announcement and felt that it was advantageous for Pakistan and also explained what it meant for India. Pointing out that both countries had been treated equally, he said, “Pakistan is not losing money. In fact, in this arrangement, Pakistan hasn't even lost its face. No matter how much they might have talked against the Hybrid Model, they had ultimately agreed, but they have also not walked away empty-handed.”

“It's now almost confirmed that it will be tit for tat. All matches till 2027 will be in the Hybrid Model. If India are not going to Pakistan, Pakistan will also not come to India and play against India. Pakistan will play their matches in a third country,” he added.

The hybrid model also covers next year’s Women’s World Cup to be hosted in India and the men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be co-organised by India and Sri Lanka. For the next cycle, Pakistan are set to host the first tournament, the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, and it is not yet known if the hybrid model will be followed.

The last edition of the Champions Trophy was held in 2017 in England and Wales. Pakistan won the tournament with a 180-run win vs India in the final.