ICC Delegation Likely to Visit Pakistan Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025
An International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation is expected to visit Pakistan early next week as part of preparations for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, though the exact dates remain unconfirmed. According to sources, no formal communication has yet occurred between the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the visit.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will mark Pakistan’s first time hosting a major ICC event since 1996, underscoring the nation’s reemergence as a safe venue for international cricket.
Meanwhile, discussions between the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding India’s participation in the tournament are expected to take place today. Given the ongoing political tensions between the two countries, the outcome of these talks could significantly influence tournament planning.
PCB Appoints Tournament Director
The PCB has announced Sumair Ahmad Syed, its Chief Operating Officer, as the Tournament Director for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Commenting on his appointment, Syed stated:
“It is an honor to take on this responsibility for a tournament of great significance to the PCB and our fans. Preparations are progressing well, with stadium upgrades nearing completion and key discussions with the ICC underway. Our experienced events team, which has successfully hosted nine multi-team HBL Pakistan Super Leagues, will play a crucial role in ensuring the event’s success.”
Champions Trophy Trophy Tour
As part of the buildup to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the iconic trophy made a memorable stop in Karachi. Unveiled at the National Stadium, the trophy embarked on a citywide tour, visiting cultural landmarks, including the vibrant Burns Road Food Street, where cricket fans celebrated under dazzling lights.
Karachi marked the final destination of the trophy’s Pakistan tour, which began in Islamabad and included stops at the Pakistan Monument, Faisal Mosque, Taxila, Khanpur, Abbottabad, Murree, and Nathiagali. The trophy will remain in Karachi until November 25 before beginning its international tour, visiting participating nations such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, England, and India between December 2024 and January 2025.
Tournament Details
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will run from February 19 to March 9, with a reserve day on March 10. Matches are scheduled across Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Lahore will host seven matches, including the final, while Karachi will stage the opening match and one semi-final. Rawalpindi will host five matches, including the other semi-final.
As per the proposed groupings, Pakistan will face India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand in Group A, while Group B includes England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan. India’s participation remains subject to approval from the Indian government.
