The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to receive $6 million as a hosting fee for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. However, PCB will need to pay $1.3 million to insure the tournament, as confirmed by sources.  

Just hours before the decisive ICC meeting on the Champions Trophy's future, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Dubai on an urgent trip. During his visit, Naqvi engaged in critical discussions with ICC CEO Geoff Allardice and other senior officials, firmly presenting Pakistan’s stance on hosting rights.  

On Thursday, Naqvi held detailed consultations with legal advisors to strengthen Pakistan's position. He categorically informed ICC that the hybrid model was not an option for Pakistan, emphasizing that India must provide a government-issued letter justifying their refusal to play in Pakistan. Without such documentation, no alternative justification would be acceptable.  

Naqvi is expected to join today's ICC Board meeting, scheduled at 3 PM Pakistan Standard Time, via video link from Dubai. PCB sources revealed that Naqvi has conveyed Pakistan’s stance clearly to ICC officials, stating that Pakistan will not compromise on its hosting rights.  

The PCB has made it clear to ICC that the hybrid model, allowing India to play on a neutral venue, is unacceptable. Furthermore, if ICC insists on neutral venues, Pakistan will not travel to India for future ICC events.  

PCB has demanded that ICC provide an acceptable solution for the Champions Trophy before the board meeting, emphasizing that discussing the hybrid model would be a waste of time.  

Pakistan will earn additional revenue from gate money and hospitality during the Champions Trophy. After deducting the insurance premium, PCB will retain approximately $6 million. In contrast, ICC annually pays $13 million to Pakistan in two installments (January and July). On the other hand, India receives 38% of ICC's annual revenue, amounting to $90-95 million.  

PCB sources referenced the 2009 T20 World Cup in England, where Zimbabwe did not participate due to visa issues. Despite their absence, Zimbabwe still received its share of ICC funding and revenue.  

Before departing for Dubai, Mohsin Naqvi visited Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where he addressed the media. He reaffirmed that the Champions Trophy will take place in Pakistan, with ICC negotiations ongoing. The renovation of Gaddafi Stadium began on October 10, with seating capacity expected to increase to 35,000-40,000.  

Naqvi expressed a desire for Rawalpindi Stadium to undergo similar upgrades but acknowledged delays in receiving reports for the project. About 70% of the Gaddafi Stadium upgrades have been completed, aiming to enhance the experience for cricket fans.  

Naqvi assured that any decisions from the ICC meeting would be implemented following government directives. While the PCB has no intention of accepting the hybrid model, it will seek government approval if ICC forces the issue.  

The ICC Board's meeting today is expected to determine the future of the Champions Trophy, with Pakistan standing firm on its hosting rights.