The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is at risk of losing its hosting rights for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, as broadcasters have raised concerns about the logistical and financial challenges of holding matches across four venues. To address these concerns, the tournament may be limited to three primary locations—Karachi, Lahore, and Dubai—due to the rising costs and complexities of coordinating coverage across multiple sites.
While the final decision is still pending, sources suggest that the official schedule, expected to be released soon, will provide more clarity on the matter.
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In addition, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have reportedly agreed on a hybrid model for the tournament. According to this arrangement, the tournament will be held entirely in Pakistan unless India qualifies for the semi-finals or final. In such a scenario, the semi-finals and final will be relocated to the UAE.
This hybrid model is part of a broader agreement between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Pakistan, which also includes a commitment to allow Pakistan to host future women’s tournaments after 2027. Fans in Rawalpindi, who had been excited about hosting high-profile matches, have expressed disappointment at the possibility of being excluded from the tournament.
