Michael Vaughan questions low crowd turnout for Champions Trophy opener
What's the story
Pakistan are hosting their first ICC event since the 1996 World Cup, kicking off the ICC Champions Trophy with a match against New Zealand. However, the audience turnout at Karachi's National Stadium was surprisingly low for the historic event. The eight-nation tournament will conclude with a final on March 9, at either Dubai or Lahore, (as India are playing all their matches in Dubai). Here's more.
Reaction
Vaughan expresses surprise over low attendance
Former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed surprise at the low attendance for Pakistan's Champions Trophy opener. He took to X and wrote, "Great to see the champions trophy being played in Pakistan .. First major event since 1996 .. Have they forgotten to tell the locals it's on .. Where is the crowd??"
Tournament details
Champions Trophy: A look at the tournament format
The Champions Trophy is divided into two groups. Group A consists of Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and India. Meanwhile, Group B has England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan. As per the tournament format, the top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals. The final will be played on March 9 in Dubai or Lahore depending on whether India qualify for it or not.
Match forecast
Team updates and weather conditions
New Zealand, who lifted the title in 2000, are coming off a successful Tri-Nation series. They had defeated Pakistan in the final recently. For today's match, New Zealand are missing pacers Ben Sears and Lockie Ferguson due to injuries. Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson were named as their replacements. Meanwhile, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl.
Twitter Post
Vaughan's X post questioning the poor crowd turnout
Great to see the champions trophy being played in Pakistan .. First major event since 1996 .. Have they forgotten to tell the locals it’s on .. Where is the crowd ?? #ChampionsTrophy2025
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 19, 2025