Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed confidence that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be hosted successfully in Pakistan, with all participating teams, including India, in attendance. The tournament is scheduled to kick off on February 19 and conclude on March 9, with matches being held in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. This would mark the first time since 2008 that an Indian cricket team visits Pakistan, pending government approval.
Naqvi addressed concerns about India’s participation, emphasizing his optimism about the Indian team’s involvement. He also highlighted that preparations for the tournament are on track, with plans to upgrade the venues before the event. “The Indian team should come. I don’t see them cancel or postpone coming here, and we are confident we will host all the teams in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan,” Naqvi stated in Lahore. He further assured that the stadiums will be in top condition and any further enhancements will be completed post-tournament.
Tournament Background and Developments
The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature teams from around the globe, and the draft schedule proposes all India matches to be held in Lahore. However, a final decision from India is still pending and will be taken by the Indian government. Recently, BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla indicated that the Indian government’s stance will determine their participation.
During a press conference, Naqvi was asked about a potential meeting with India’s Minister of External Affairs, S Jaishankar, who is visiting Pakistan for the SCO Council of Heads of Government conclave on October 15-16. Naqvi played down the possibility, stating, “He is coming but I don’t think the details of his meetings have been set.”
Babar Azam’s Resignation and Team Selection Discussions
The PCB chairman was also questioned about Babar Azam’s resignation from Pakistan’s white-ball captaincy. Addressing the issue, Naqvi shared that he had asked the selection committee to take their time to make a thoughtful decision about Babar’s successor. The emphasis was on ensuring a long-term appointment that aligns with the team’s future plans.
Naqvi also confirmed that he inquired about the possibility of introducing new talent to the national team. The selection committee, along with the team’s captain and head coach, were content with the current player setup, and thus no immediate changes are planned.