ICC Delegation Arrives in Pakistan to Inspect Champions Trophy Preparations

Karachi, Pakistan – A six-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to arrive in Pakistan tonight for a four-day visit, during which they will evaluate preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The delegation will first land in Karachi and begin by inspecting facilities at the National Bank Stadium.

The visit is part of a series of inspections aimed at ensuring Pakistan is ready to host the prestigious tournament, scheduled for February to March 2025.

Focus on Facilities and Security

The delegation will closely examine the stadium’s arrangements, including proposed training facilities for participating teams. Additionally, they will meet with hotel management to review accommodations and amenities provided for players and support staff.

A key focus of the visit will be security. The ICC officials will hold meetings with local security personnel to ensure the safety of players, officials, and spectators. After the Karachi inspection, the team will head to Islamabad and Lahore to assess facilities in those cities as well.

This marks the fourth time an ICC delegation has visited Pakistan in preparation for the Champions Trophy as the nation gears up to host its first major ICC tournament since 1996.

Pakistan Confirms Champions Trophy Hosting, Despite Rumors

There were rumors that the series could be relocated out of Pakistan due to security concerns, but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, Mohsin Naqvi, dismissed these claims. He stated that the series will definitely be held in Pakistan. ICC’s Chief Executive Geoff Allardice also confirmed, “There are currently no plans to relocate the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 from Pakistan,” further assuring that no team has expressed reluctance to participate.

Uncertainty Over India’s Participation

Despite preparations being in full swing, India’s participation in the tournament remains doubtful. Former cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra recently voiced concerns about the Indian team’s chances of traveling to Pakistan, citing the tense political relations between the two countries.

“The chances [of India visiting Pakistan] are very slim, to be honest,” said Chopra during a podcast appearance on Raj Shamani’s YouTube channel. He added that while Pakistan successfully hosted the Asia Cup using a hybrid model, political tensions may prevent India’s participation in the Champions Trophy.

India’s cricket board, the BCCI, has yet to confirm whether the team will visit Pakistan and is awaiting government approval. According to reports, the BCCI has proposed alternative venues, such as Dubai or Sri Lanka, for India’s matches.

Stadium Upgrades Underway, but Challenges Remain

Although the PCB is optimistic about the progress of stadium renovations in Karachi and Lahore, local media have reported concerns that the board might be behind schedule. However, a PCB spokesperson reassured that, “The redevelopment of the stadiums in Karachi and Lahore is progressing rapidly, and we are confident the targets will be met on time. These upgrades are not just a necessity but a critical step in elevating our venues to meet the expectations of the modern game”

Furthermore, the upgrades are part of the PCB’s efforts to meet international standards and provide world-class facilities for players and fans alike.

This is a critical moment for Pakistan, as it marks nearly three decades since they last hosted an ICC tournament. Hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy will be the first time the country will serve as the sole host for an ICC event.