In a significant development, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced on Saturday that the Pakistan women’s cricket team will not travel to India for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. Instead, the team will play its matches at a neutral venue, following the hybrid model earlier proposed and accepted during the ICC Champions Trophy talks.
Naqvi emphasized that the PCB is committed to maintaining diplomatic balance and expects the International Cricket Council (ICC) to uphold the agreement.
“Just like India refused to play in Pakistan during the Champions Trophy and played in Dubai, we will do the same in the World Cup,”
said Naqvi during a press conference available on the PCB official website.
Understanding the Hybrid Model in ICC Tournaments
What Is the Hybrid Model?
The hybrid model in ICC cricket allows teams to play at neutral venues due to diplomatic cricket tensions, especially between India and Pakistan. Under this model, while India will host the Women’s World Cup 2025, Pakistan’s matches will likely be held in a country like the UAE or Sri Lanka.
This model ensures both countries can participate without violating government or foreign policy restrictions. It also sets a precedent for other ICC events hosted by Pakistan or India in the future.
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Pakistan Women’s Team Qualifies in Style for World Cup 2025
Dominating the Qualifiers in Lahore
Naqvi expressed pride over how the Pakistan women’s cricket team performed in the World Cup qualifiers held in Lahore, where they remained undefeated. The team secured victories against Ireland, Scotland, West Indies, Thailand, and Bangladesh, earning a spot in the main tournament alongside India, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.
India to Host ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025
Tournament Dates and Expectations
India is set to host the ICC Women’s World Cup from September 29 to October 26, with major venues across the country gearing up for the action. However, matches involving Pakistan will be moved to an alternate location. The ICC tournament updates 2025 will reveal the finalized neutral venues soon.
Naqvi added,
“We believe in fairness. Since Team India didn’t travel to Pakistan, it’s only logical we follow the same route. Agreements with the ICC must be honored.”
Support Grows for Pakistan Women’s Cricket
Naqvi concluded by praising the team’s unity and spirit. he stated.
“Our women showed how to use home conditions to their advantage. We’ll soon announce a special award for their performance,”
Fans can buy Pakistan women’s cricket jerseys, watch live matches, or stream ICC Women’s World Cup online through official platforms.
As Pakistan prepares for neutral venue matches, cricket lovers and stakeholders alike await the ICC’s confirmation of the venue list. Those eager to catch the action can book ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 tickets, follow the PCB match alerts, or subscribe to ICC newsletters for regular updates.
