ICC delegation set to visit Pakistan over Champions Trophy preparation

Pakistan will be hosting an ICC event after 27 years as the Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to be held between February 19 to March 9. The country is marred by some extremist incidents in the past which involves a terrorist attack on a touring Sri Lanka team in 2009. Ahead of the marquee event, an International Cricket Council (ICC) team will pay a visit to Pakistan and take note of preparations for the event.

Champions Trophy was last held in 2017 and Pakistan emerged as the winner of the coveted title beating India comprehensively in the final. As the defending champions brace to welcome the world, the ICC delegation will review the major aspects including tournament schedule, practice matches, venues, and ticketing.

“Right after the ICC delegation’s visit, we are hopeful that the schedule and ticket details will be announced,” a source was quited as saying told India Today. “The process has already been delayed, so we expect ICC to make the announcement soon.”

Before the global event, Pakistan will be hosting England for the Test series before touring Australia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The lack of preparation was evident during the recently concluded Bangladesh series, as the Test from Karachi Stadium was shifted due to ongoing construction at the venue. The ICC delegation will visit Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and National Stadium in Karachi to make sure the venues are match-ready.

It is worth noting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has allocated Rs 12.80 billion for the renovation of the stadiums. According to reports from The Nation, the apex council will also finalise the tournament schedule with the PCB within the next two days. Meanwhile, the roster of teams and groups is already out.

Champions Trophy 2025 Groupings

Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh

Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan, South Africa