Karachi, February 19, 2025: Cricket fever is at its peak as Pakistan hosts an ICC event for the first time in 29 years, with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicking off today in Karachi. The opening match, featuring Pakistan and New Zealand, will take place at the National Bank Cricket Stadium.
President Asif Ali Zardari will attend the match as the chief guest, while the Pakistan Air Force’s Sherdils team will perform an aerial display to mark the occasion. The first ball is set to be bowled at 2:00 PM PST.
Pakistan last hosted an ICC event in 1996, when the country co-hosted the ICC Cricket World Cup. The final, held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, saw Sri Lanka triumph over Australia by seven wickets.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed the Champions Trophy as a testament to Pakistan’s peace and security. “Hosting this tournament is a moment of pride for the entire nation,” he said. “This event is not just about cricket—it’s a celebration of our culture and traditions.”
Naqvi extended a warm welcome to all participating teams, emphasizing Pakistan’s deep passion for cricket.
The tournament features eight teams competing across three venues in Pakistan—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—as well as Dubai, UAE. It will run from February 19 to March 9.
To prepare for the event, major renovations were carried out at Gaddafi Stadium (Lahore), National Bank Cricket Stadium (Karachi), and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, ensuring world-class facilities for players and spectators.
Pakistan has ramped up security in the host cities amid heightened preparations. Over 6,700 security personnel, including 1,045 Special Security Unit (SSU) commandos and officers from various law enforcement agencies, have been deployed in Karachi.
The tournament has not been without controversy. India refused to play in Pakistan due to long-standing political tensions, leading to their matches being relocated to Dubai. Despite this, PCB officials remain confident in delivering a successful event.
Authorities have issued strict security and entry protocols for fans attending matches at Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium:
Mandatory Documents: Spectators must carry their original national identity card and a physical match ticket for entry. Online tickets will not be accepted at stadium gates. Fans who purchased online must collect physical tickets from designated courier centers.
