PCB Chairman Praises Champions Trophy 2025 Agreement as a 'Landmark Achievement for Pakistan'

New Delhi, Dec 24 (NationPress) The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the long-awaited schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025 on Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment for international cricket. With the tournament set to adopt a hybrid format, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi conveyed his pride and optimism regarding Pakistan’s hosting duties.

This is a historic occasion for Pakistan, as it last hosted a major ICC event during the 1996 World Cup.

The Champions Trophy 2025, featuring eight teams, is set to kick off on February 19 with the opening match between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi. The tournament will conclude with the final on March 9, which will take place in Lahore unless India qualifies, in which case it will be relocated to Dubai.

"We are delighted that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines our sport," Naqvi remarked, underscoring the significance of this milestone for Pakistan cricket.

He also expressed appreciation to the ICC for facilitating Pakistan’s role as a co-host alongside Dubai. "Hosting the Champions Trophy is a major milestone for Pakistan, reflecting our dedication to promoting cricket at the highest level and demonstrating our capabilities as a leading event organizer. Pakistan is thrilled to welcome the world to the Champions Trophy, and we are eager to extend our renowned hospitality to all," he added.

This hybrid format guarantees that Pakistan will host the majority of the matches, with games planned for Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Each venue is set to host three group-stage matches. Dubai will hold all of India’s matches, including their opener against Bangladesh on February 20 and the highly anticipated showdown with Pakistan on February 23.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah also took to X to share his thoughts about the upcoming tournament.

“Very excited for the @ICC Men's Champions Trophy to start in February,” he posted on X.

The semi-finals are slated for March 4 in Dubai and March 5 in Lahore, with reserve days allocated for both semi-finals and the final.

If India qualifies for the final, it will also be moved to Dubai; otherwise, Lahore will host the championship match.

Reserve days are set for both semi-finals and the final. The Dubai leg begins on February 20 with India facing Bangladesh. Group B action kicks off on February 21, as Afghanistan goes up against South Africa in Karachi.