ICC Pleased with Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Preparations; India’s Involvement Still Uncertain
Champions Trophy preparations advance but India’s involvement still in doubt [Source: @CricCrazyJohns, @Sports_Himanshu/x.com]
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has given a thumbs-up to Pakistan’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held across Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. During a recent meeting in Dubai, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi presented an extensive progress report on the renovations and infrastructure upgrades of the three selected stadiums—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
ICC Impressed With Pakistan's Preparations for Champions Trophy 2025
The upgrades aim to ensure the venues meet international standards for the tournament, which is slated to kick off in February next year.
According to Geo News, ICC officials are content with the preparations, expressing confidence that the venues will be ready before the multi-nation event begins.
With cricket fans already gearing up for the tournament, this development marks a major milestone for Pakistan’s bid to successfully host a major ICC event for the first time since 1996.
Call For ICC To Visit Pakistan Remains Hopeful As PCB Seeks An In-Person Review
Taking the opportunity to strengthen the rapport with the governing body, Naqvi urged the ICC to make an official visit to Pakistan to personally review the renovations and arrangements. Such a visit could be a significant step toward not just assessing the progress but also building confidence around hosting a successful event.
However, the PCB’s challenges don’t end with just infrastructure. The presence of the Indian team is crucial for the success of the Champions Trophy 2025.
India's Participation Key to Tournament's Success
As things stand, the biggest question mark looming over the tournament is the participation of Team India. BCCI’s reluctance to send its players to Pakistan has been a longstanding issue, given the tense political relations between the two countries.
In fact, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief Richard Gould openly claimed that the event "can’t go ahead without India," highlighting India's indispensable role in the tournament's success.
PCB is reportedly working on alternative arrangements to ensure India’s participation. The proposed plan includes daily travel arrangements for the Indian team, with flights to and from Lahore, Chandigarh, or Delhi. However, BCCI has not shown any interest in this idea, with officials already stating that such plans will not be considered, even if an official request is made.
In essence, the BCCI’s decision will be the make-or-break factor for the Champions Trophy’s success, leaving the ball squarely in India’s court.
The Clock Is Ticking For Pakistan To Deliver A Successful Tournament
With less than four months to go until the Champions Trophy 2025, PCB has to ensure that everything is executed to a T. While infrastructure upgrades seem to be on track, getting India on board remains the biggest hurdle. As preparations enter the final stretch, the PCB is undoubtedly facing pressure to deliver.
Pakistan’s hosting of the Champions Trophy is not just about cricket; it’s about reclaiming its status as a premier venue for international cricket. The ICC’s positive feedback so far is encouraging, but the real test lies ahead.