
A billboard in Karachi depicting Indian stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of Champions Trophy. —AFP/File
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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s successful bid to host the Champions Trophy has confirmed this as one of the world’s most passionate and influential cricketing countries.
Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi expressed the hope that the milestone would pave the way for more international cricket mega events returning to the country.
Talking to journalists, Naqvi praised the Champions Trophy 2025 as the beginning of a new era for Pakistan cricket. “This is not just a tournament. It is a statement to the world that Pakistan is ready to welcome international teams and fans with open weapons.
The following are some of the questions and answers to the conversation.
Q: How important is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for PCB?
A: The ICC Champions Trophy is of paramount importance for PCB in 2025. Pakistan last hosted the ICC event in 1996. Since then, despite a decade -long absence of international cricket on our soil – we have no mistake – we have won the ICT20 World Cup in 2009, winning the ICC Test. The Championship Mess in 2016 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017.
Against this background, hosting the Champions Trophy is a milestone. This is an opportunity to confirm it as a highly enthusiastic and influential cricketing countries in Pakistan, which is capable of stage multi -nation tournaments at the highest level. In addition, we have the opportunity to present global infrastructure, enthusiastic crowds and cricket culture, which deserves more important events of the ICC in the next cycle.
The tournament will also work as a catalyst for the development and development of cricket in Pakistan. It will affect the younger generation, which allows them to see the latest stars practically in a highly competitive global tournament.
To ensure an advanced experience for players and fans, the PCB has invested in upgrading famous locations in Lahore and Karachi, making it more spectators than a player, government and broadcast point of view. Has become friendly and sophisticated. This investment will leave a lasting heritage for Pakistan cricket.
Q: Are there any security concerns, and what steps have been taken?
A: Pakistan has successfully hosted all major cricket players since 2019 since 2019, including England and New Zealand, who have visited three times three times from 2022. Australia also made its first visit in 24 years in early 2022, while Elite International cricketers have been regular visitors. Pakistan Super League to Pakistan.
The smooth implementation of these series is proof of the strong security framework we have established. Our safety protocols, manufactured in partnership with high security agencies, have been permanently appreciated by players, their respective boards and independent experts.
He said, the PCB remains alert and active. In October 2024, we presented a comprehensive security plan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which was unanimously approved by the ICC. With the full support of our highly trained security agencies, we are fully committed to ensuring a safe, smooth and memorable tournament for all stakeholders.
Q: As the host of the ICC’s first major event in Pakistan in almost 30 years, is it disappointing that India has chosen to play its match in a neutral location?
A: This is undoubtedly disappointing – not only for the PCB, but also for cricket fans, ICC, its business partners and other partners around the world.
Pakistan has permanently maintained the principle of sports and politics. Our team has visited India several times, including 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016 and recently in 2023. Naturally, we hoped that India would take revenge by participating in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Unfortunately, this has not happened.
The PCB, along with the Pakistan Government, provided comprehensive assurances for security, hospitality and logistics arrangements for the Indian team. We have constructively engaged with the ICC and conveyed our consent to our consent to facilitate every possible step to ensure a smooth and safe tour. Despite these efforts, India has chosen not to travel.
The absence of India from Pakistan is a loss to fans, broadcasters, media and itself. But it is also an opportunity for Indian players to lose warmth, love and hospitality that Pakistan has always extended to the visiting teams.
The tournament is ready to show Pakistan’s ability to host major sports events, reinforcing its stance at the global cricketing stage. As expected are constructed, PCB is committed to providing world -class spectacle, which will have a lasting impact on sports and the nation.