The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that matches between India and Pakistan during the 2024–2027 rights cycle will be played at neutral venues, resolving weeks of uncertainty surrounding the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
The decision follows India’s refusal to tour Pakistan for the tournament, citing security concerns and political tensions. In a reciprocal move, Pakistan will play its matches in ICC events hosted by India at neutral locations yet to be determined.
“India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC events during the 2024-2027 cycle will be played at a neutral venue,” stated the ICC in a release. “This arrangement will apply to the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.”
Champions Trophy and Beyond
The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, marks the first ICC event to be hosted by Pakistan since it co-hosted the 1996 World Cup alongside India and Sri Lanka. While the match schedule is expected to be released in the coming days, the tournament has already reignited hopes for cricket’s return to the region.
The agreement also covers the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, both co-hosted by India, with the latter being shared with Sri Lanka.
A Longstanding Rivalry
India and Pakistan, who have not engaged in bilateral cricket since 2013, only compete in multi-team tournaments due to strained political relations. India last visited Pakistan for a bilateral series in 2006, while Pakistan toured India in late 2012.
Most recently, Pakistan traveled to India for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, completing all its matches in the country. However, during the 2023 Asia Cup, India played its fixtures in Sri Lanka under a “hybrid model” after citing governmental restrictions on visiting Pakistan.
Champions Trophy History
Pakistan has a notable history in the Champions Trophy, winning the 2017 edition by defeating India in the final by 180 runs in London. The 2025 tournament will offer Pakistan an opportunity to host an ICC event on home soil after nearly three decades.
The ICC’s decision underscores its efforts to navigate the complexities of one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries while ensuring the safety and integrity of its events.
