After weeks of intense negotiations, the deadlock over hosting next year’s Champions Trophy has been resolved. On Thursday, the ICC confirmed that India’s matches for the 50-over event will be played at a neutral venue, while Pakistan will follow a similar arrangement for tournaments held in India until 2027.
This decision affects two major ICC events in 2024: the men’s Champions Trophy, hosted by Pakistan, and the women’s ODI World Cup in India. Additionally, it will apply to the men’s T20 World Cup in 2026 (co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka) and the women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, which will be hosted in Pakistan. For the first time, India’s matches in the Champions Trophy, including potential semi-finals and finals, will be played outside India, with the UAE likely to host them.
The breakthrough follows prolonged talks between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), with both sides agreeing to the ‘fusion model’—a compromise offering neutral venues for high-profile matches. The deal ensures that for the upcoming Champions Trophy, India and Pakistan will not face off on home soil but at a neutral site, much to the dismay of Pakistani fans eager to host their rivals.
The decision has been met with mixed emotions. Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram acknowledged it as the “best solution” but lamented the missed opportunity for millions of Pakistani fans who hoped to witness India’s star players in person.
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