An important step towards hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan has been initiated with the arrival of a two-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC). The delegation, consisting of Senior Manager Event Operations Sarah Edgar and Manager Aoun Zaidi, is in Pakistan to evaluate the preparations made by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the upcoming tournament.
Their inspection began with a visit to the National Bank Arena in Karachi, followed by assessments of arrangements at the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Subsequently, the delegation will proceed to Islamabad to review the facilities at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi have been selected as the venues for the ICC Champions Trophy matches, marking the first time Pakistan will host an ICC tournament since the unfortunate incident involving the Sri Lankan cricket team in 2009.
It is anticipated that ICC Head of Events Chris Tetley will join the delegation in Islamabad to oversee further preparations.
Pakistan secured the exclusive hosting rights for the ICC Champions Trophy in December 2023, marking a significant milestone for the country. As hosts, Pakistan has automatically qualified for the tournament and will defend their title as reigning champions, having emerged victorious in the 2017 edition.
Joining Pakistan in the tournament will be seven other top-ranked teams from the ICC World Cup 2023 Group stage, promising an exciting competition.
The ICC Champions Trophy is slated to take place in February and March next year, offering cricket fans a thrilling showcase of talent and competition on Pakistani soil.