Mohammad Amir, former Pakistan pacer, has shown relief and elation at the announcement that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 which is to be hosted by Pakistan, will be played in a hybrid model. This means that India will not travel to Pakistan and their matches, including ones against Pakistan, will be played at a neutral venue.
However, the compromise also means that going forward, the hybrid model will also be implemented for other ICC events in the 2024-2027 cycle, including the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 (hosted by India) and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 (hosted by India and Sri Lanka).
Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been awarded the hosting rights for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in 2028, with neutral venue arrangements in place.
Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir praised the hybrid format, expressing his excitement about the idea of an India-Pakistan meeting, regardless of the venue. He added that fans would find a way to see the legendary duel, even if it took place on the moon.
"As a cricketer, I welcome this announcement of the India vs Pakistan match in Champions Trophy 2025 in a neutral venue (as per the hybrid model). Even if this contest of India and Pakistan happens on the moon, fans will find a way," Amir told Sunil Yash Kalra, as quoted by ANI.
Amir acknowledged the significance of the India-Pakistan match, but he also expressed dissatisfaction with the ICC's attitude, claiming that the governing body was sluggish in resolving the standoff.
"I welcome the fact that the match between India and Pakistan is taking place. The significance lies in the match itself, not the venue. I am happy, and I am sure all those who want to see this iconic clash will be happy too," he added.
"They have scheduled tournaments until 2031, so why did the work on the Champions Trophy 2025 only begin two months ago? ICC has acted very very lazy (over delays in dealing with the Champions Trophy) ICC should have gotten into the act to resolve this deadlock sooner since the calendar is set years in advance. It is necessary to have a match between India and Pakistan, everyone is waiting for the match between India & Pakistan, including me,” Amir concluded.
The schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be confirmed soon, with the tournament to be played from February 19 to March 9. The eight-team event will feature Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, and South Africa, alongside the hosts Pakistan.
