GUWAHATI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Thursday, December 19, that all matches involving India and Pakistan in ICC events during the 2024-2027 rights cycle will be played at neutral venues. This arrangement will now apply to the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for February and March, which Pakistan is set to host.
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The neutral venue policy will be in effect for following major tournaments as well, including the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, hosted by India, and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
In a related development, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been awarded the hosting rights for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028, with neutral venue arrangements continuing for matches between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Cricket Australia will host one of the senior ICC women’s events during the 2029-2031 period.
The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 will see Pakistan aiming to defend their 2017 title. The eight-team tournament includes Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and hosts Pakistan.
The detailed schedule for the tournament is expected to be announced soon.
