Due to delays in stadium renovations, there have been multiple media stories suggesting that the 2025 Champions Trophy may be held outside of Pakistan. The Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan will be held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. India has chosen not to go to Pakistan for the event. Hence its matches will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Due to delayed development at the three venues that will host the ICC Champions Trophy beginning on February 19. The Pakistan Cricket Board has denied rumours that the tournament may be moved outside of the nation. According to an India Today article, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is keeping a careful eye on the condition of the three stadiums in Pakistan. Its delegation has not yet voiced any concerns.
The large International Cricket Council (ICC) group, includes personnel from television, hotel, and event management. This is a sign that the event is proceeding as planned in Pakistan, according to a PCB source. The official went on to say that a local reporter had taken unapproved footage of the development at Karachi’s National Stadium and painted a poor image.
ICC Punish Pakistan for Stadium Delays
A PCB official told IANS, “All the work (related to stadiums) will be done by the first week of February. Pakistan will successfully host the Champions Trophy. No need to go by any rumours. We are committed to giving our best. There are people who are trying to tarnish Pakistan’s image on social media. We know who all they are and why they are doing this.”
He explained that the statement was issued because the media had begun flashing speculative news without verifying the facts. He added that this could have caused chaos and confusion among the PCB and ICC. Government, commercial partners, and fans, potentially impacting the event’s ticketing and marketing. The PCB and concerned officials stated that they were closely monitoring the stadium’s work and assured it would be ready to host the Champions Trophy matches on time.
