Quote from Alex bobby on February 15, 2025, 6:51 AM

Pakistan Set to Host ICC Champions Trophy 2025: A Historic Moment for Cricket

After nearly three decades, Pakistan is set to host a major international cricket tournament as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 returns to its soil. The event marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s cricketing history, rekindling memories of its co-hosting role in the 1996 Cricket World Cup when Sri Lanka emerged victorious at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. With 15 matches scheduled, including the final on March 9, this tournament represents a crucial step in reviving Pakistan’s stature as a premier cricketing destination.

A Long-Awaited Return

Pakistan’s last opportunity to host a global cricket event was the 2008 ICC Champions Trophy, which was ultimately relocated to South Africa due to security concerns. Since then, international teams have largely avoided touring Pakistan due to the 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team. However, the successful hosting of recent bilateral series and Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches has gradually restored confidence in the country’s security measures.

According to a senior Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official, securing the right to host the Champions Trophy involved intense lobbying and overcoming substantial hurdles. “People do not realize what an incredible challenge this was. It took countless hours of lobbying, convincing, arguments, and overcoming a variety of hurdles to ensure the tournament is played in Pakistan,” the official told Al Jazeera.

Significance Beyond Cricket

Cricket has always played a vital role in Pakistan’s national identity. Hosting this tournament is not just about cricket; it is a statement of Pakistan’s return to the global stage. Associate Professor Ali Khan from the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) emphasizes the symbolic importance of this event, drawing parallels to Pakistan’s golden era in sports during the 1990s when it hosted major events in hockey, squash, and snooker.

The economic benefits are also substantial. Pakistan expects to generate millions in revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, tourism, and hospitality services. With a hosting fee of $6 million and potential revenue from international visitors, the tournament could provide a much-needed boost to Pakistan’s economy.

Security and Logistical Challenges

Despite these positives, security remains a concern. In the past year, Pakistan has witnessed a resurgence in violent incidents, particularly in its northwestern and southwestern regions. However, the ICC’s security team has cleared Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi—the three main venues—for hosting matches. PCB officials assert that the country has successfully hosted international teams in recent years without any major incidents, pointing to the smooth conduct of PSL as a testament to Pakistan’s preparedness.

India’s Absence and the Hybrid Model

The most contentious aspect of the tournament is India’s refusal to play in Pakistan, citing its government’s long-standing policy since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. As a compromise, a hybrid model was agreed upon, with India playing all its matches in Dubai, including the final if they qualify. This arrangement ensures the tournament’s financial viability, as India’s presence is crucial for broadcasters and sponsors.

The decision has sparked debate about the influence of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on global cricket governance. India’s financial dominance, with an estimated $230 million annual revenue from the ICC, gives it significant leverage in decision-making. In contrast, Pakistan has had to compromise to ensure the tournament’s success.

Pakistan’s Preparations and Expectations

With just days left until the tournament’s opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi, Pakistan is eager to showcase its organizational capabilities. The PCB has invested nearly 12 billion Pakistani rupees ($43 million) in stadium renovations to meet international standards.

However, concerns remain regarding ticketing, promotion, and fan engagement. Critics argue that logistical issues, including delays in announcing the schedule and ticket sales, reflect the PCB’s lack of foresight. Despite these challenges, the PCB remains confident in delivering a world-class event.

The Road Ahead

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is more than just a cricket tournament for Pakistan; it is an opportunity to reshape its global image and prove that it is ready to host major sporting events again. The government has pledged full support to ensure the tournament’s security and success.

On the field, Pakistan’s players have an opportunity to shine on the biggest stage, enhancing their reputation in the global cricketing landscape. With the absence of a bilateral series against India, Pakistan must maximise this tournament’s potential to assert itself as a cricketing powerhouse.

Despite geopolitical tensions, security concerns, and logistical hurdles, hosting this event marks a significant victory for Pakistan’s cricket community. If executed successfully, it could pave the way for more international tournaments to return to the country, reinforcing its status as a cricketing hub.

Conclusion

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 represents a defining moment for Pakistan, both as a cricketing nation and as a host of international sporting events. After years of isolation from global tournaments, this competition offers Pakistan a chance to demonstrate its ability to stage high-profile matches safely and efficiently. While challenges remain—ranging from security concerns to India's absence—the successful execution of this event could mark the beginning of a new era for Pakistan cricket.

Beyond the boundary ropes, the