LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday expressed his satisfaction with the ‘deal’ for ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi’s comments came just hours after the Apex Cricketing Body revealed highly anticipated schedule for the eight-team tournament.
In a statement released by the PCB, Naqvi expressed gratitude to fellow ICC members for helping the board reach a mutually beneficial solution.
“We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, demonstrating the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport,” said Naqvi.
“Our sincere gratitude goes to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us reach a mutually beneficial solution. His efforts have been invaluable in sparking the interests of international cricket,” he added.
The PCB chairman termed the holding of the mega event as a significant milestone for Pakistan cricket and promised to make the eight-team squad memorable for players, officials and fans with the country’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 committed to ensuring this tournament is a memorable experience for players, officials and fans.
“Pakistan is excited to welcome the world to the Champions Trophy and we look forward to extending our renowned hospitality to everyone.”
According to the recently announced schedule, the eight-team tournament comprising 15 matches will take place 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 includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B comprises Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia.
Hosts Pakistan will face 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 at home, 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 qualifies, it will also be held in Dubai.
Additionally, a reserve day has also been allocated for the final clash as a precautionary measure to combat any weather-related obstacles.
Sohail Imran is a senior reporter at Geo News.
