‘Tournaments Will Happen Without Pakistan’: Harbhajan Singh Rubbishes PCB’s Hybrid Model Threat on Champions Trophy 2025

Champions Trophy 2025: Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has voiced a sharp response to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) threats of boycotting future ICC events in India, asserting that tournaments would proceed even in Pakistan’s absence.

Speaking about the PCB’s resistance to the proposed hybrid model for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Harbhajan rubbished the idea that Pakistan’s refusal to travel to India for sporting events will have any effect,

“If Pakistan does not want to travel to India in the future, it is their call,” he said. “Tournaments will happen without their participation as well."

Pakistan to Implement Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy 2025?

The Champions Trophy 2025 has been a contentious topic, with Pakistan originally designated as hosts. However, the hybrid model – where matches are split between neutral venues and Pakistan – has emerged as a solution after months of uncertainty following India’s refusal to send its team to the neighbouring country due to security concerns.

While the PCB initially ruled out such an arrangement, mounting diplomatic and logistical challenges appear to have shifted their stance.

The proposed hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025 mirrors its implementation in the 2023 Asia Cup, which allowed India and Pakistan to compete without either nation visiting the other. While this arrangement may temporarily ease tensions, the PCB has hinted at enforcing similar conditions for future ICC events in India.

The final plan awaits ICC Board approval, with both sides maintaining their respective diplomatic stances.

'Jay Shah Will Take Cricket to Higher Level’: Harbhajan Singh

Harbhajan also spoke about Jay Shah’s new role as ICC Chair, expressing confidence in his leadership. “Jay Shah will take cricket to a higher level globally,” the legendary spinner said, highlighting Shah's positive work with the BCCI. “Also, he can bring in smaller nations to participate more.”

As the youngest ICC Chair in history, Shah's track record with the BCCI, including successfully hosting marquee tournaments and implementing a hybrid model for the Asia Cup 2023, positions him well for this challenge.

Harbhajan praised India’s performance in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, commending stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah for leading the team to a commanding victory. India excelled in all departments, showcasing their bench strength even in Rohit Sharma’s absence.

With Rohit Sharma set to return for the second Test, concerns over his batting form persist. Harbhajan, however, downplayed these worries, suggesting the inclusion of young Dhruv Jurel over Shubman Gill as a tactical move for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.