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Pakistan's white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi on December 24 lauded the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the announcement of Champions Trophy 2025's hybrid schedule.
After a long gap of 28 years, Pakistan will host an ICC event but India will play their matches in UAE.
“As a cricket loving country, we are all very excited to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. It is a great occasion as Pakistan welcomes the first ICC event to its shores in 28 years and especially as we are the defending champions,” Rizwan said in a PCB media release.
“We eagerly look forward to playing in front of our home crowd,” he added.
PCB chief Naqvi who was against the hybrid model at first is content after the agreement ICC, BCCI and PCB reached on playing ICC matches at neutral venues. India will play Pakistan in their group stage clash in Dubai in February 23.
“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,” Naqvi said in the release.
The tournament opener will be played between defending champions Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. One of the semifinals is in Dubai irrespective of whether India advance to the last four or not. However, the final's venue will depend on India. If India qualify for the final, then it will be played in Dubai. Otherwise, the final on February 19 will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
“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 organiser,” Naqvi noted.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution.”
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