Dubai: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that all matches between India and Pakistan in ICC events through 2027, including the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, will take place at neutral venues. This decision, confirmed by the ICC Executive Board on Thursday, aims to ensure smooth operations amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations.
In a statement, the ICC clarified, “India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country as part of the ICC Events during the 2024-2027 rights cycle will be played at a neutral venue.” This arrangement applies to major tournaments, including the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan in February-March 2025, the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, hosted by India, and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The ICC also awarded the hosting rights for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), confirming that neutral venues will be utilized for matches involving India and Pakistan.
This resolution dispels uncertainties surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025, with Dubai emerging as a leading contender to host India’s matches. However, the ICC noted that the tournament schedule would be finalized and released soon.
The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature eight teams: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and hosts and defending champions Pakistan.
In addition, the ICC announced that Cricket Australia has secured the hosting rights for a senior women’s ICC event during the 2029-2031 cycle, reflecting the global governing body’s commitment to promoting women’s cricket.