Lahore, December 7, 2024– Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting regarding the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled for today, has been postponed. Despite the delay, Naqvi assured the nation that the final outcome would exceed public expectations.
Speaking to the media in Lahore, Naqvi emphasized that while the decision on the Champions Trophy has yet to be finalized, the public will be informed promptly once a resolution is reached. He reassured the nation, stating, “We will not disappoint the nation. The results will go beyond expectations.”
Highlighting efforts to revitalize domestic cricket, Naqvi discussed plans to enhance the condition of cricket grounds across the country. He explained that work on upgrading existing grounds and acquiring land to build new ones has already begun. Naqvi stressed the importance of empowering domestic cricket to nurture better players and called for expanding cricket activities to areas currently underserved. He expressed hope that the stadium in Peshawar would be completed soon and tournaments could be organized in cities where cricket is underrepresented.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the venue for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, significant progress has reportedly been made. The ICC and PCB have reached an agreement on a “hybrid model” for hosting global tournaments in Pakistan and India through 2027. Under this arrangement, Pakistan and India will play their matches at neutral venues when ICC tournaments are hosted by the other country.
The agreement, reportedly finalized in Dubai during discussions between ICC Chairman Jay Shah and Mohsin Naqvi, comes as a breakthrough in resolving long-standing venue disputes. The ICC’s scheduled events during this period include the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in February 2025, the Women’s ODI World Cup in India in 2025, and the Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in 2026.
While the ICC has yet to announce an official decision on the Champions Trophy, Naqvi reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to playing a constructive role in global cricket. “If the ICC suffers losses, it will impact global cricket. We are contributing positively and will continue to do so,” he remarked.
This development signals hope for improved cooperation between Pakistan and India in ICC tournaments, potentially paving the way for smoother operations in future international cricket events.
