The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains steadfast in its resolve to host all matches of the Champions Trophy 2025 within Pakistan. Despite ongoing rumors about a potential “plan B” or neutral venue due to India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan, the PCB insists that the Champions Trophy, being a Pakistani event, should be entirely staged in the country.
The venue for the tournament will be a significant topic of discussion during the International Cricket Council (ICC) annual meeting in Colombo, scheduled from July 19 to 22. The PCB delegation plans to attend the meeting with a firm stance on ensuring that all matches are held in Pakistan. Three Pakistani venues — Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore — have been designated to host the tournament’s eight matches. In a proposed schedule to the ICC, the PCB has placed all of India’s matches in Lahore.
To prepare for the event, the PCB has allocated Rs12.80 billion for upgrading three key stadiums: Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Arena, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. These enhancements are aimed at providing improved facilities for teams and spectators alike.
The PCB points out that, except for India, all participating teams have previously played in Pakistan, suggesting that India lacks a valid reason to refuse participation. Should India opt out, the PCB has indicated it will reciprocate by not participating in the 2026 T20 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, marking the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. The last ICC Champions Trophy, held in 2017, saw Pakistan triumph over India in the final. For the PCB, this tournament is a crucial opportunity to showcase Pakistan as a safe cricket destination.
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