ICC delegation to visit Pakistan for 2025 Champions Trophy assessment
An International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation is set to visit Pakistan to assess the country's preparations for the 2025 Champions Trophy. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first ICC event hosted by Pakistan in 27 years. The tournament is scheduled to run between February 19 and March 9, with Pakistan being the defending champions after their victory in 2017. Here are further details.
ICC delegation to review key aspects of tournament
The ICC team's visit aims to evaluate crucial elements of the upcoming tournament. These include the schedule, practice matches, venues, and ticketing procedures. A source told India Today that following this visit, they expect the ICC to announce details about the schedule and tickets soon. This assessment comes as part of Pakistan's efforts to ensure a successful hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025.
ICC team to inspect key cricket stadiums in Pakistan
The ICC delegation will inspect three key cricket venues in Pakistan - the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and the National Stadium in Karachi. This follows a recent incident where a Test match had to be relocated from Karachi Stadium due to ongoing construction work. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has allocated a budget of ₹12.80 billion for stadium renovations ahead of the tournament.
Uncertainty surrounds India's participation in Champions Trophy
Despite ongoing preparations, uncertainty looms over the Indian cricket team's participation in the 50-over Champions Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will follow directives from the Centre regarding their involvement. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that he has been coordinating with the BCCI about their potential participation. This comes after India declined to visit Pakistan for last year's Asia Cup, resulting in their matches being played in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
