The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is set to lose its hosting rights for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, as broadcasters have advised limiting the tournament to three venues due to logistical and financial challenges.
Sources confirm that broadcasting from four venues is considered impractical, with concerns over increased expenses and operational hurdles. Consequently, Karachi, Lahore, and Dubai are being prioritized as the main venues for the event.
The Champions Trophy schedule is expected to be announced today, with the final decision hinging on an agreement currently under review by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Pakistan and India Agree on Neutral Venue Formula
In a landmark development, Pakistan and India have reached a consensus on a “neutral venue formula,” allowing the two rivals to participate in ICC events without hosting matches in each other’s countries.
Under the agreement, Pakistan will play its matches in India at neutral venues until 2027, while India will adopt a similar approach for events hosted in Pakistan. This arrangement will cover upcoming tournaments such as the 2025 Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup in India.
The ICC is expected to finalize this arrangement soon, marking a significant step towards resolving cross-border hosting issues.
While the exclusion of Rawalpindi is a setback for local cricket fans, the decision aligns with the logistical needs of global broadcasters and highlights the growing emphasis on efficiency in organizing major international events.