Pakistan all set to host Champions Trophy from tomorrow

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reaffirmed the nation’s readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ensuring that all necessary preparations are in place for a world-class event.

Speaking to the media, Naqvi stated that Pakistan is fully equipped to welcome the world’s top cricketers and ensure a seamless tournament experience for players, officials, and spectators alike.

“Pakistan is ready for the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi declared, expressing confidence in the country’s ability to host the high-profile event. “Our security plan was presented to the ICC Board in October 2024 and was unanimously approved. This ensures that all necessary protocols are in place to provide a safe and smooth experience for everyone involved,” he added.

The Champions Trophy 2025 marks the return of a major ICC tournament to Pakistan after nearly three decades, the last being the 1996 Cricket World Cup, co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka. This milestone signifies Pakistan’s resurgence as a top-tier cricketing destination, bolstered by the successful staging of home international series and Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches over the past few years.

“The PSL played a pivotal role in reinstating Pakistan’s reputation as a safe cricketing venue. It gave foreign players firsthand experience of our hospitality, security arrangements, and cricketing infrastructure,” Naqvi noted.

“Our stadiums underwent extensive renovations to meet global standards, ensuring an unparalleled experience for players and fans. This includes upgraded dressing rooms, improved pitch conditions, and enhanced security protocols,” Naqvi explained.

Naqvi acknowledged the crucial role of the federal and provincial governments, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders in ensuring the successful hosting of the event. Coordination with local administrations, hotel chains, and service providers has been a key part of the planning process.

“We have worked closely with all relevant authorities to ensure smooth operations. The unwavering support from government institutions has played an instrumental role in making this event a reality,” he said.

Hosting a multi-team ICC event presents a unique set of challenges compared to a bilateral series. Unlike the PSL, which is entirely managed by the PCB, the Champions Trophy is an ICC-owned event, requiring continuous coordination with the global governing body.

Pakistan has made significant strides in restoring international cricket over the past five years. Top Test-playing nations, including England, Australia, and New Zealand, have toured Pakistan, demonstrating the country’s capability to host high-profile matches.

“Since 2019, all major Test-playing nations—except India—have toured Pakistan. Their visits, along with the participation of foreign players in the PSL, have shown that Pakistan offers world-class playing conditions, operational efficiency, and robust security measures,” Naqvi stated.

“The Champions Trophy 2025 is a landmark moment for Pakistan cricket. We are fully prepared to showcase our passion for the game and our ability to host world-class tournaments. The cricketing world will witness Pakistan at its finest,” he concluded.