Pakistan Welcomes Back International Cricket with Champions Trophy 2025

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Pakistan is set to host the International Cricket Council Champions Trophy 2025, commencing on February 19, marking the first major cricket event in the country in 30 years. The nationwide excitement builds as eight teams, including Pakistan, Australia, India, and England, prepare to compete over the course of nearly three weeks, culminating in a final on March 9.

This tournament is significant for Pakistan, which last hosted the Men’s Cricket World Cup in 1996. Matches featuring India will be held in Dubai, due to the Indian cricket board’s security concerns related to traveling to Pakistan. This decision excludes India from playing within the country, a source of disappointment for many fans.

The tournament begins with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi, a moment eagerly anticipated as international cricket largely disappeared from Pakistan after a 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team. This incident halted the hosting of significant cricket events and left a void in the national sports culture.

International cricket resumed in Pakistan with a series against Zimbabwe in 2015. Since then, several teams have visited the country, restoring hope for cricket fans. Among those looking forward to the event is Karachi resident Mohsin Ali, who expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s the biggest event for us since 2009.” Tickets have been reasonably priced, with Ali purchasing his for just over $10.

Security measures for the tournament are extensive, with nearly 20,000 police personnel deployed across key cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Each match day will see heightened security, including snipers on rooftops and isolated travel routes for players.

As stated by Muhammad Waqas, a senior police official, “Even the slightest administrative lapse will cause embarrassment at a very large level. We are monitoring this at the highest level.” All attendees will undergo thorough screening, including metal detectors and security staff checks, ensuring a secure environment for fans.

The absence of India from the matches is a letdown for many, as the rivalry between the two nations is considered the pinnacle of cricketing encounters. Yet, cricket journalist Umar Farooq remarked, “Six countries coming to play here is a very big victory for Pakistan.”

In preparation for the tournament, the Pakistan national team has been rigorously training, refining their skills as they get ready for their opening match. The squad, led by Captain Mohammad Rizwan, hopes to defend their title after recent successes in ODI series against teams like Australia and South Africa.

Former players and cricket officials believe that holding the Champions Trophy can enhance Pakistan’s global image. Tauqir Zia, former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, noted, “When you don’t have tourists, then people will not know how your country is.”

With stadium upgrades and extensive efforts to promote a secure and festive atmosphere, the Champions Trophy 2025 seeks to reaffirm Pakistan’s status on the international cricket stage following years of isolation. Former cricketer Mushtaq Ahmed expressed optimism that this tournament could usher in a new era of international cricket events in the country.

The repair of Pakistan’s cricket reputation following the longstanding challenges it faced — such as the shutdown of international matches due to security issues — places significant importance on the success of this event as the world looks on.