The hybrid model for the Champions Trophy has been signed already, says Shoaib Akhter, the former fast-bowler of the Pakistan Cricket Team.
Shoaib, who was once known for his exceptionally good bowling, is now famous for the interesting statements he makes about the issues of the cricketing world now and then.
According to him, the chaos of Champions Trophy and hosting rights is nothing but just a drag while ICC has already decided to move forward with the hybrid model.
For context, ever since ICC awarded the hosting rights of Champions Trophy 2025 to Pakistan, the Indian Cricket Board has shown their reservations about travelling to the neighbouring country.
Citing security issues and the ongoing political tensions between the two states, BCCI has refused to travel to Pakistan and requested an alternative solution.
As a response, ICC suggested a hybrid model where matches involving India would be played at a neutral location. Although the Pakistan Cricket Board was against the idea for quite a time, they have recently announced in favour of the model.
However, their agreement comes with certain conditions which include stretching the hybrid model until 2031. This means Pakistan would have the provision for not travelling to India in any of the upcoming ICC tournaments, shifting their matches to a hybrid location.
BCCI supposedly has refused to accept this condition, putting the Champions Trophy on a hanging thread yet again.
While the drama of the Champions Trophy continues, fans and critics as well as former players are sharing their stances on the situation.
Out of all these statements and speculations, Akhtar’s claim that the format had already been decided and these meetings are nothing but just a drag opens up an entirely new discussion.
Additionally, the former cricketer has also proclaimed that it is just the governmental authorities that are restricting India from travelling to Pakistan.
The team and players are eager to tour Pakistan, specifically, Virat Kohli seems very keen for the visit, he has further added.
The player has also hinted that if the Indian Cricket Team agrees to visit Pakistan by any chance, the TV and broadcasting channels would see their ratings touching the sky as soon as the player lands here.