This agreement is applicable to the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which India and Sri Lanka will jointly host, the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, and the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
With the introduction of a hybrid hosting format for major ICC events slated between 2024 and 2027, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has settled the long-running controversy surrounding the 2025 Champions Trophy. This agreement stipulates that India’s matches in tournaments hosted by Pakistan will take place in a neutral location, and Pakistan will reciprocate by moving its matches in events hosted by India to neutral venues.
This arrangement is applicable to the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan, according to information obtained from ESPNcricinfo. The 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, which has been awarded to Pakistan as part of the upcoming ICC event cycle, may also follow this hybrid hosting approach.
The host board of each event will suggest a neutral location for the ICC to approve under the new paradigm. This ruling is a major step in resolving the political and practical issues of both countries while striking a balance between hosting rights.
A triangular Twenty20 International series between India, Pakistan, and another Asian Full Member or Associate Member country has been approved by the ICC in a related development. If organized, these competitions will likewise follow the neutral venue rule. This plan is perceived as a form of restitution for Pakistan, which will not be able to host India’s Champions Trophy matches.
The official schedule for the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy is still pending venue confirmations, but it is scheduled to start on February 19. The cricket rivalries between India and Pakistan will continue, although on neutral ground, thanks to this accord, which represents a major breakthrough.
