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Xtra Time Web Desk: In anticipation of the upcoming Champions Trophy scheduled tentatively for February-March next year, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi as the designated venues. Despite ongoing speculation regarding a potential 'hybrid model' to accommodate India's participation, the PCB remains steadfast in its commitment to host the tournament within the country.

The Champions Trophy, last hosted in England in 2017, is poised to return, with India's participation still pending confirmation. Amidst uncertainty surrounding India's involvement and speculations of utilizing a 'Hybrid Model' to hold their matches at a neutral venue in case of government clearance issues ICC has emphasized its stance of respecting member nations' government policies.

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"We've sent the schedule for the matches in Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy," PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said at a press conference in Lahore. The ICC's security team came and we had a very good meeting. They looked at arrangements here, and we'll also share stadium upgrade plans with them. We are trying to ensure we host a very good tournament in Pakistan," PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said at a press conference in Lahore.

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The PCB remains resolute in its stance that the tournament's format will not be modified to accommodate India. A precedent for the 'Hybrid Model' was set during last year's Asia Cup. Spearheaded by BCCI secretary Jay Shah, the Asian Cricket Council relocated India's matches to Sri Lanka, despite Pakistan being the designated host nation. Naqvi also acknowledged the substandard condition of all three proposed venues for hosting international cricket matches.

'We need to improve facilities'

"If you look at Gaddafi (here), it is good but the viewing experience is not great for cricket. Football maybe, not cricket, we need to improve facilities in the stadiums, where there are some old problems. Karachi is in bad shape. So, on May 7, we will finalise bids from international companies who will come and help us design. We are already late but we need to do these upgrades in four-five months. It will be a very tough test but we can do it.," Naqvi concluded.