The fate of the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan, hangs in the balance as reports suggest that the tournament could be shifted out of the country or held in a hybrid model. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is yet to make a final decision on the matter, but a decision is expected soon.

Pakistan was awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy in 2019, but there have been concerns about the country's security situation. India, one of the key participants in the tournament, has expressed reservations about sending its team to Pakistan.

According to reports, the ICC is considering two options:

1. Shifting the tournament to the United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE has hosted numerous international cricket tournaments in recent years and has a proven track record of providing a safe and secure environment for cricket.

2. Holding the tournament in a hybrid model: This would involve playing some of the matches in Pakistan and some of the matches in a neutral venue, such as the UAE.

The ICC is expected to make a final decision on the hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025 in the coming weeks. The decision will be based on a number of factors, including the security situation in Pakistan, the availability of venues, and the willingness of participating teams to travel to Pakistan.

Impact of Shifting the Tournament

If the Champions Trophy 2025 is shifted out of Pakistan, it will be a major blow to the country's cricket fans and economy. Pakistan has not hosted a major international cricket tournament since the 2009 ICC World Twenty20.

Shifting the tournament would also be a setback for the ICC's efforts to promote cricket in Pakistan. The country has a rich cricketing history and a passionate fan base. Hosting the Champions Trophy would have been a major opportunity to showcase Pakistan's cricketing prowess and hospitality to the world.

The decision on the hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025 is a complex one. The ICC will need to weigh all of the factors involved before making a final decision. It is a decision that will have a significant impact on Pakistan cricket and the global cricketing community.