LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday, expressed his pleasure on the ‘agreement’ for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi’s remarks came just hours after the apex cricketing body unveiled the highly-anticipated schedule for the eight-team tournament.
In a PCB-released statement, Naqvi expressed gratitude to fellow ICC members for helping the board in achieving a mutually beneficial solution.
“We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport,” said Naqvi.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution. Their efforts have been invaluable in prompting the interests of international cricket,” he added.
The PCB chair termed hosting the mega event a significant milestone for Pakistan cricket and vowed to make the eight-team n a memorable one for players, officials and fans with the nation’s renowned hospitality.
“Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, highlighting our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and showcasing our capabilities as a premier event organizer.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that this tournament will be a memorable experience for players, official and fans alike.
“Pakistan is elated to welcome the world to the Champions Trophy, and we look forward to extending our renowned hospitality to all.”
As per the recently-announced schedule, the eight-team tournament, comprised of 15 matches, will run from February 19 to March 9, across three venues – Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi – in Pakistan and Dubai.
The eight teams are divided into two groups. Group A features Pakistan, India, New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B is comprised of Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia.
Hosts Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the curtain raiser on February 19 in Karachi, while the blockbuster clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
Pakistan will host a total of 10 matches in their country, while four matches, including all three of India's group-stage matches and the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.
The final of the tournament is scheduled to be played in Lahore but if India qualify then it will also be held in Dubai.
Furthermore, a reserve day has also been allocated for the final clash as a precautionary measure to combat any weather-related hindrance.
Sohail Imran Sohail Imran is a senior reporter for Geo News.
