BCCI faces open revolt from ECB amid strong rumors of Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy 2025

Richard Gould, Chief Executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has opened up about the Champions Trophy 2025 venue amidst strong rumors of a hybrid model. Richard Gould discussed the possibility of Pakistan hosting the whole ICC tournament despite India withdrawing from the event next year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) awarded hosting rights to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, which is scheduled for February-March next year. However, there's uncertainty regarding India's participation. India hasn't visited Pakistan for over 15 years due to political tensions between the two countries.

The 2025 Champions Trophy will be Pakistan's first major multi-nation cricket tournament since the 2008 Asia Cup. Pakistan hosted the 2023 Asia Cup, but India's matches were moved to Sri Lanka. Only four matches of the continental event were held in Pakistan, while nine, including the final, took place in Sri Lanka.

The recently crowned World T20 champions have not visited Pakistan since 2008 due to security concerns. The Men in Blue are unlikely to travel there for the Champions Trophy as well. The BCCI is expected to propose a hybrid model, where the Indian team might play their matches in Sri Lanka or the UAE instead.

There's a Great Deal Of Determination - Richard Gould

In a recent interview, Richard Gould of the ECB confirmed their commitment to hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year, despite concerns about India's participation. Gould said that both the ECB and PCB are strongly determined to ensure the tournament proceeds as planned in Pakistan.

"There's a great deal of determination to make sure it [Champions Trophy] is [hosted in Pakistan next year]. Particularly from the PCB and the ECB," said Gould as quoted by Wisden.

The tournament is expected to start on February 19 in Karachi, with the final at Gaddafi Stadium on March 9. India is placed in Group A with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. India and Pakistan will play each other on March 1 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where India’s games will be held.

Pakistan are defending champions of the Champions Trophy. The Men in Green won the title in 2017 by defeating India by 180 runs. The Pakistan team bowled out India for 158 in the final at the Kennington Oval in London. Sarfraz Ahmed's team beat Sri Lanka, South Africa, and England to reach the final clash.

ECB To Sack Matthew Mott As England's White-Ball Coach?

Richard Gould also responded to speculation about Matthew Mott's sacking as England's white-ball coach. Gould stated that these rumors are false and added that no decision has been made about replacing Mott.

"No, that's not true. That's certainly not true, and Matthew Mott is a really good guy, a really good coach, he's got a really good track record, same with Jos [Buttler]," said Gould.

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