Photo Credit: Twitter Profile Photo of @MohsinnaqviC42
The Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, has reaffirmed the board’s commitment to hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan in February and March.
Naqvi made the statement during the 76th Board of Governors (BoG) meeting, held at a local hotel in Islamabad on Wednesday.
Key developments regarding Pakistan’s preparations for the tournament were discussed, with Naqvi updating BoG members on the nation’s progress. He assured that Pakistan is fully prepared to host the prestigious event.
Naqvi highlighted the national importance of the Champions Trophy, stating, “From day one, our focus has been on ensuring success for Pakistan and cricket.” He pledged to uphold the event’s prestige and promised a warm welcome for all participating teams. “We will leave no stone unturned in preserving the prestige of this event,” he added.
Emphasizing the need to keep politics out of the game, Naqvi remarked, “Cricket is a sport loved by millions, and we believe it should remain free from politics.”
The meeting also reviewed ongoing stadium upgrades in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi to meet international standards. Members expressed satisfaction with the progress and commended the PCB’s efforts to prepare Pakistan as a host nation.
BoG members also acknowledged the success of the ongoing Champions T20 Cup at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, serving as a precursor to the Champions Trophy. Earlier this year, the PCB successfully organized the Champions One-Day Cup in Faisalabad, further showcasing Pakistan’s capability to host major tournaments.
Discussions also addressed the ICC’s approval of the ‘fusion formula’ proposed by the PCB to resolve logistical challenges for Indo-Pak matches in ICC tournaments. Reports indicate that the decision was reached during an unofficial ICC meeting earlier this year.
Under this arrangement, India will play their matches in the UAE during the Champions Trophy 2025 instead of traveling to Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistan’s matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the much-anticipated Indo-Pak clash, will take place in Sri Lanka, the event’s co-host.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
