In a landmark decision, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has awarded Pakistan the hosting rights for a major ICC event in 2028, according to a report by Express Tribune. The ICC Women’s Tournament in 2028 will be hosted in Pakistan as part of an agreement between the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
This move comes as a resolution to compensate Pakistan for the financial losses it will incur due to India’s withdrawal from the Champions Trophy 2025, which was originally slated to be hosted entirely in Pakistan.
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Compensation Through Hosting Rights
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi chaired a meeting where it was revealed that the ICC’s compensation plan aims to safeguard Pakistan’s financial and cricketing interests.
- Rejecting Monetary Compensation: While India had initially proposed a financial settlement for the PCB, the board declined the offer, prioritizing “national dignity” over monetary gain.
- Alternative Proposal by PCB: Pakistan suggested a model where neither country would host ICC events involving the other for the next three years.
The ICC eventually decided on granting hosting rights for the Women’s World Cup in 2028, allowing Pakistan to remain a prominent player in global cricket.
2025 Champions Trophy to Be Played in a Hybrid Model
Despite the resolution, the 2025 Champions Trophy will now be hosted under a hybrid model, splitting matches between Pakistan and Dubai:
- Pakistan will host 10 matches, while all three of India’s league matches, including the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash, will take place in Dubai.
A Step Toward Pakistan’s Cricket Revival
The decision to grant Pakistan hosting rights for the ICC Women’s Tournament in 2028 marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s cricket.
This commitment reflects the ICC’s recognition of Pakistan’s role in international cricket and its efforts to address long-standing challenges. Hosting the Women’s World Cup will also bolster the country’s profile in the women’s game, paving the way for future opportunities in global cricket.
As preparations begin for the 2025 Champions Trophy and the Women’s World Cup in 2028, Pakistan looks set to reclaim its position as a host of world-class cricket events.