The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly denied reports suggesting that the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be moved to Dubai if India qualifies. According to a recent report by The Telegraph, there were claims that the final would be shifted from Lahore to Dubai, but the PCB has labelled these claims as baseless.
A PCB spokesperson clarified the board’s stance, stating, “There is absolutely no truth to the reports suggesting that the Champions Trophy final could be moved outside Pakistan. We are working diligently to ensure all preparations for the tournament are on track, and we are confident that Pakistan will host a memorable event.” This statement emphasizes the PCB’s commitment to hosting all matches of the tournament within Pakistan, including the final.
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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place in Pakistan, with Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi slated to host the matches. Major renovations are currently underway at these venues to upgrade facilities in preparation for the tournament, which is scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Update – Pakistan Cricket Board has strongly rejected the rumors of Indian media about Champions Trophy matches to be shifted to Dubai. PCB is upgrading stadiums in Pakistan by investing millions of rupees only to host a complete event. #ChampionsTrophy2025 #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/aOiRbzgwHs
— Ahmad Haseeb (@iamAhmadhaseeb) October 8, 2024
Lahore will play a significant role in the event, hosting seven matches, including the final at Gaddafi Stadium. Karachi’s National Stadium will host the opening match and one semi-final, while Rawalpindi will stage five matches, including the other semi-final.
The semi-finals are scheduled for March 5 and 6, with Karachi and Rawalpindi serving as the venues, while the final will take place in Lahore on March 9.
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India last played a cricket match on Pakistani soil in 2008, during the Asia Cup, but has refrained from touring Pakistan since then due to political tensions. In contrast, Pakistan has visited India on multiple occasions, most recently for the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite the ongoing tensions, Pakistan remains focused on hosting the ICC event successfully.
