Pakistan Ready for ICC Champions Trophy, Naqvi Affirms
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Tuesday that the country is “fully prepared” for the ICC Champions Trophy, which kicks off on February 19.
As the host nation, Pakistan enters the tournament as the defending champion, after the ICC decided to reinstate the Champions Trophy following its initial removal from the schedule. The competition, featuring the world’s top eight teams, is a shortened version of the 50-over Cricket World Cup. With a single-league format and teams split into groups of four, the tournament is fiercely competitive, with every match crucial to progressing.
Naqvi emphasized the readiness of the country and its facilities, ensuring that international standards would be met for both teams and spectators. He expressed pride in hosting the ICC tournament after 29 years, stating that the PCB was committed to making the event a grand success and elevating Pakistan’s honor on the global stage.
The opening match between New Zealand and Pakistan on February 19 will be graced by President Asif Ali Zardari, who will attend as the chief guest. The event will also feature a spectacular aerial display by the Pakistan Air Force.
The PCB has spent a significant amount—Rs12.80 billion—to renovate three major stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. While Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Bank Stadium in Karachi are ready for use, the Rawalpindi Stadium’s renovation will be completed post-tournament. All three stadiums have received ICC approval to host matches.
