The International Cricket Council (ICC) will make every effort to convince Pakistan to accept the hybrid model at the board of directors meeting.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, under the possible schedule, 15 matches have been scheduled for the event from February 19 to March 9, in which Pakistan is proposed to host 10 matches and one semi-final, while a proposal to shift 5 matches, including the other semi-final and the final, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is under consideration.
If Pakistan accepts the hybrid model (which is unlikely), then broadcasters will have to face serious operational and logistical challenges. Meanwhile, the PCB may be given discounts and additional money if it accepts the hybrid.
Reports say that bookings for venues, hotels and travel arrangements for a semi-final and a final will also have to be made.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is still yet to make a final decision on where India’s matches will be held, while South Africa is also being considered for hosting, but the South African board has clearly refused to do so.
If the decision in the meeting is made on the basis of voting that the matches should be held under the hybrid model, it will be the first time that the tournament has been moved elsewhere due to the non-participation of just one team from the event host, there is no such example in the past.
14 members, including the board members participating in the board of directors meeting, will be able to cast their votes.
Following this decision, Pakistan could potentially withdraw from tournaments to be held in India, including the Women’s World Cup and Men’s Asia Cup next year, as well as the T20 World Cup in 2026.