Shoaib Akhtar, former Pakistan fast bowler, has criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for agreeing to the hybrid model for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. According to Akhtar, the deal had already been finalized before the PCB publicly accepted it, accusing the board of conceding without securing better terms.
Under the hybrid model, India will play all of its matches in the UAE, while the remainder of the tournament will be held in Pakistan. This arrangement follows India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns, leading to the International Cricket Council (ICC) endorsing the proposal.
Also Read: PCB Rejects Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy
Akhtar expressed disappointment with the PCB’s negotiations, acknowledging the financial benefits but suggesting Pakistan deserved a better deal. “PCB should have demanded a larger share of the revenue,” he said, criticizing the board for appearing resistant while the terms were already agreed upon.
The deal has received mixed reactions, with some supporting PCB for retaining hosting rights, while others question its handling of the situation.
