The debate over venue for 2025 ICC Champions Trophy continues with Pakistan sticking to a claim of full hosting of the event. On the other hand, India has proposed a 'hybrid model', which they say can include playing all their matches and the final in Dubai. The difference of opinion has now led the International Cricket Council (ICC) to cancel an event that was supposed to announce the schedule of the event. It doesn't look either side is ready to back down. The tensions are still well and alive. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar also spoke his mind on the issue on Tuesday, an opinion on the ongoing standoff. In an interview with PTV Sports, Shoaib said: “There will be back channel talks. Even in days of war there is back channel talks. We should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know a fact that 95-96 per cent of sponsorship for ICC comes from India." He added: “It’s really up to the governments. It’s nothing to do with the BCCI. Virat Kohli is trying to play in Pakistan for the first time. Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. It will be a full circle for him. Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like World Cup. If this (Champions Trophy) happens it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don’t think this will happen. Keeping the fingers crossed. Wait till the last moment. I think currently, as of now, India is coming to Pakistan." Watch the video: $100M loss #championstrophy2025 khabardar says shoaib Akhtar #ptvsportsofficial pic.twitter.com/AO0X08Zzew — iffi Raza (@Rizzvi73) November 18, 2024 Also Read | PCB Faces Back-Channel Negotiations for CT25 Hosting ICC Engages in Back-Channel Talks Media reports are that the ICC is having 'back-channel' consultations with the PCB to get this hybrid model through. It is claiming to educate the PCB as to why this model is the best, and that an ICC event without India is not feasible. Officials have also urged Pakistan to avoid making damaging statements against India during such a time. India, runners-up of the Champions Trophy held in 2017, have already conveyed its negation to play matches in Pakistan due to security reasons. Indian team's games are to be played there in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Meanwhile, Geo News reported that the PCB has written a letter to the ICC seeking clarification on India's refusal to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. And so the current standoff persists as each country maintains its stance.