The concept of the hybrid model in cricket has become a focal point of discussions following its implementation for the 2023 Asia Cup and its expected use in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This innovative approach addresses political and logistical challenges between cricketing nations, especially India and Pakistan.
After the 2023 Asia Cup was announced as a hybrid tournament, possibilities for using hybrids in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy have been gaining excitement and discussion. The Hybrid Model and Hybrid Tour are being considered possible answers to the problem of incompatibility existing between cricketing nations, especially India and Pakistan.
What Is the Hybrid Model in Cricket?
A hybrid model is a kind of tournament setup where many games happen across at least two or more countries’ territories alongside the specific right of hosting by any nation.
Example: Pakistan will host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy; however, for security concerns, India will have its matches in Dubai.
Here is the primary narrative of the concept-a happening that began to occur back at the 2023 Asia Cup when the right was kept by the Pakistan and India matches held in Lak Boundaries.
Why the Hybrid Model?
Political tensions between India and Pakistan have led to challenges in bilateral and multilateral cricketing events. India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, citing security issues. Similarly, Pakistan has had limited opportunities to host ICC events due to these diplomatic standoffs.
See Also:- Champions Trophy 2025 Pakistan Squad
India vs Pakistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy
India and Pakistan are set to face off once again in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, but their clash will follow the hybrid model.
Tournament Schedule Highlights
- Dates: February 19 to March 9, 2025
- Venues:
- India’s matches: Dubai, UAE
- Other matches: Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan
The PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized maintaining “Pakistan’s pride” while ensuring a win-win formula for cricket.
PCB’s Demands and ICC’s Response
To agree to the hybrid model, the PCB placed significant demands before the ICC:
- Continuation of the Hybrid Model: PCB requested this model for all ICC tournaments hosted by India until 2031.
- Example: 2029 ICC Champions Trophy and 2026 T20 World Cup.
- Increased Revenue Share: PCB asked for compensation to bridge the gap between their current revenue share (6%) and BCCI’s share (38%).
The ICC and BCCI have yet to finalize decisions on these demands.
Challenges for India-Pakistan Matches
- Neutral Venues: India’s matches in Pakistan-hosted tournaments are expected to be played in third-party locations, such as the UAE or Sri Lanka.
- No Bilateral Series: India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012-13. The chances of reviving bilateral cricket remain slim due to ongoing political tensions.
Read Also:- Champions Trophy 2025 India Squad
How the Hybrid Model Benefits Cricket
The hybrid model balances the need for cricket to continue amidst political disagreements. It allows:
- Global Fans: To witness high-profile clashes like India vs Pakistan.
- Host Nations: To retain pride and financial benefits.
- ICC Events: To proceed without major disruptions.
India-Pakistan Cricket Rivalry: Recent Highlights
| Event | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Asia Cup 2023 | Sri Lanka | India won by 228 runs |
| T20 World Cup 2024 | Australia | Pakistan won by 6 wickets |
The hybrid model is a diplomatic balance for cricket to live between India and Pakistan despite political issues. With only a few days left before the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, cricket lovers are excited and waiting for what would be yet another fierce fight between the two countries. Through a hybrid model, the game of cricket will prevail, but still have its limitation according to each sovereign country.
