Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reiterated the board’s unwavering commitment to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan during February and March.
Naqvi made this statement during the 76th Board of Governors (BOG) meeting held at a local hotel in Islamabad on Wednesday.
During the meeting, important developments regarding Pakistan’s preparations for the prestigious ceremony were discussed. Naqvi provided updates to BoG members, confirming that Pakistan is fully on track to host the tournament.
He stressed the national importance of the Champions Trophy and vowed to ensure that it goes ahead without compromise. “From day one, our focus has been on ensuring the success of Pakistan and cricket,” Naqvi said.
“We will leave no stone unturned to preserve the dignity of the event. A warm welcome will be extended to all participating teams,” Naqvi added, stressing the PCB’s readiness to deliver a world-class tournament.
He also emphasized the importance of keeping cricket apolitical, saying, “Cricket is a game that is loved by millions, and we believe it should remain free from politics.”
The meeting also reviewed progress on the upgradation of stadiums in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi, aimed at meeting the stringent international standards required for the tournament. The members expressed their satisfaction over the work and appreciated the PCB’s efforts to ensure the readiness of Pakistan as the host country.
The BoG members also noted the success of the ongoing Champions T20 Cup at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, a precursor to the Champions Trophy. Earlier this year, the PCB successfully hosted the Champions ODI Cup in Faisalabad, further boosting confidence in Pakistan’s organizational prowess.
ICC approval of PCB’s proposed ‘Fusion Formula’ to resolve logistical challenges related to India-Pakistan matches in ICC tournaments was also discussed. According to reports, the decision was taken during an unofficial meeting of the ICC earlier this year.
Under this arrangement, India will play their matches in the UAE during Champions Trophy 2025 instead of traveling to Pakistan.
Similarly, Pakistan will not travel to India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with their matches, including the highly anticipated Indo-Pak clash, being held in Sri Lanka. Wale, who is co-hosting the event.