PCB chairman optimistic about hosting more ICC events post 2025
What's the story
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hopes the successful hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will pave the way for more international cricket in Pakistan. This historic event will mark Pakistan's first ICC tournament on home soil in nearly three decades since the 1996 ODI World Cup. The PCB has made elaborate arrangements to make it a memorable experience for fans. Here's more.
Preparations
PCB's extensive preparations for Champions Trophy 2025
In anticipation of the Champions Trophy, the PCB has extensively upgraded four of its cricket venues. "The ICC (International Cricket Council) Champions Trophy 2025 is a culmination of those efforts. Our successful hosting of this event will further enhance Pakistan's credentials" Naqvi told Reuters. He further added, "Security has long ceased to be a concern for visiting teams as we have consistently demonstrated our ability to provide a safe, secure and well-managed environment for international cricket."
Tournament details
Champions Trophy 2025: A test for Pakistan's readiness
The ICC Champions Trophy begins on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. Meanwhile, the eight teams are split into two groups: Group A - India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand Group B - Australia, England, South Africa, Afghanistan. "The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been a monumental task, requiring extensive preparations in a limited timeframe," Naqvi stated.
Venue shift
India's matches and potential final to be held in Dubai
India raised concerns about playing in Pakistan, so their matches will be held in Dubai according to the hybrid model approved by the ICC. Meanwhile, if India make it to the final, it will also be played there. Nevertheless, Naqvi pointed out that all the major Test-playing nations except India have toured Pakistan since 2019. He highlighted the PCB's last-minute renovations of Karachi and Lahore's main grounds, emphasizing their commitment to world-class playing conditions.