The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has put forward Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi as the proposed venues for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking a significant step in the country’s cricketing landscape. According to reports from ESPNcricinfo, the initial draft schedule of the tournament was recently shared with the International Cricket Council (ICC) by the PCB.
Scheduled to host the eight-team tournament next year, Pakistan’s bid to hold the Champions Trophy on home soil signifies a momentous occasion, marking the first time in nearly three decades that an ICC event would be held within the country’s borders. The green shirts’ triumphant victory in the last edition of the Champions Trophy in 2017, held in England, adds to the anticipation surrounding the potential hosting of the tournament in Pakistan.
The proposed venues of Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi were outlined in the initial draft schedule, with the tournament expected to span over two weeks, although specific dates are yet to be confirmed. The PCB’s submission of the draft schedule followed a visit by an ICC team to conduct assessments for the tournament’s logistics and infrastructure.
Confirming the developments, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed optimism during a press conference in Lahore, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure a successful tournament. "We’re continuously in touch with the ICC,” stated Naqvi, emphasizing the commitment to hosting a high-quality event in Pakistan.
However, challenges loom, particularly concerning India’s participation in the tournament amidst political tensions between the neighboring nations. With bilateral cricket matches between India and Pakistan a rarity due to strained relations, the hosting of ICC tournaments presents the only opportunity for on-field encounters between the two cricketing giants.
Furthermore, upgrading existing stadiums to meet international standards poses another hurdle for Pakistan. Naqvi underscored the need for improvements in stadium facilities, particularly at the National Stadium in Karachi, emphasizing the urgency of upgrades to ensure readiness for the Champions Trophy.
Despite the challenges ahead, the PCB remains resolute in its determination to host a successful ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, marking a significant milestone for cricket in Pakistan.
