October 22, 2024: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed its satisfaction with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) preparations for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
During a recent ICC meeting, PCB officials, including Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, provided a detailed briefing on the tournament’s arrangements, including the upgrades to three key stadiums. The PCB assured the ICC board that all necessary improvements will be completed on schedule. In addition, Naqvi extended an invitation for ICC board members to visit Pakistan to personally review the progress.
However, certain challenges remain, particularly regarding India’s participation in the event. Due to longstanding political tensions and security concerns, India has not played in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup. While Pakistan has traveled to India on multiple occasions since then, bilateral ties have largely been limited to ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
In light of these uncertainties, the ICC is reportedly considering three possible options for the Champions Trophy. The first option is to proceed with the tournament fully in Pakistan, as planned. The second option is a hybrid model, where some matches, including India’s and the knockout games, would be hosted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), specifically in Dubai. The third option is to move the entire tournament outside Pakistan, with Dubai, Sri Lanka, or South Africa being considered as alternate hosts.
This event holds particular significance for Pakistan, as the country has not hosted a major ICC tournament since co-hosting the 1996 ODI World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. The final decision regarding the venue will likely depend on the resolution of security and diplomatic concerns, particularly involving India’s participation.
