Pakistan is fully ready to host the Champions Trophy, Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), said, sharing that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved the security plans and protocols for the upcoming mega event as well. However, it will be the first time since 1996 that Pakistan will be hosting an ICC tournament.
“Pakistan is ready for the Champions Trophy. As with any ICC event, the host nation must submit a comprehensive security plan for review by ICC security experts and representatives from participating countries. Our security plan was presented to the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board in October 2024 and received unanimous approval,” Naqvi shared in a written response given to Cricbuzz. “This plan ensures that all necessary protocols are in place to provide a safe and seamless experience for teams, officials, and spectators alike. Pakistan is fully prepared to host the world’s best cricketers, officials, foreign spectators and commercial partners.”
While talkiing about a perspective on preparation, Naqvi also said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has helped the PCB achieve the goals as well. Also, the government machinery was fully at work and the federal government has also helped them to be prepared on time for the upcoming tournament as well.
ALSO READ: “I think Virat Kohli is the only option” – AB de Villiers backs Kohli as RCB captain for IPL 2025
“The PSL played a pivotal role in reintegrating international cricket into Pakistan. It provided a platform for foreign players to experience Pakistan’s hospitality, security arrangements and cricketing passion firsthand. Once we successfully staged home international series and consistently delivered PSL editions at world-class standards, the ICC accepted and recognised Pakistan’s readiness to host a global event. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a culmination of those efforts. Our successful hosting of this event will further enhance Pakistan’s credentials, positioning us as a strong contender for more ICC men’s events in the next events cycle.”
“We have worked closely with federal and provincial governments, law enforcement agencies, city administrations, hotel chains and various service providers to ensure smooth operations. The unwavering support from all relevant authorities has been invaluable and their commitment has played a crucial role.”
However, the challenges that PCB faced, he felt, was to coordinate with global stakeholders on operational aspects and make sure the security are on point, considering it is an ICC event.
“Organising a multi-team ICC event presents a different set of challenges compared to a single-team bilateral series. The key distinction lies in governance: while the PCB has complete control over PSL operations, the ICC Champions Trophy is an ICC-owned event with Pakistan as the host. This means constant coordination with the ICC across various operational aspects, ensuring alignment on security, logistics and venue readiness. This additional layer of oversight and collaboration has been integral to the planning and execution of the tournament.”
ALSO READ: “Aap Lucknow ke naye nawab hain” – Aakash Chopra on Rishabh Pant’s appointment as LSG captain
“Since 2019, all major Test-playing nations – except India — have toured Pakistan, some multiple times. England and New Zealand, for instance, have visited three times in as many years, and foreign players regularly participate in the Pakistan Super League. As a result, they are already familiar with Pakistan’s world-class playing conditions, operational efficiency and robust security measures,” he stated again.
“Our stadiums last underwent significant renovations for the 1996 World Cup, and since then, the global cricketing landscape has evolved tremendously. We recognised that this event was an opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s ability to host top-tier international cricket, ensuring that our facilities meet the highest global standards for players, officials, and fans alike – both those attending in person and those watching via broadcast. The dedication and expertise of our workforce have been instrumental in transforming Gaddafi Stadium and National Stadium Karachi into world-class venues. Their tireless efforts deserve immense appreciation and we are immensely proud to welcome a nation versus nation multi-team cricket tournament to Pakistan on such a grand stage,” Mohsin Naqvi concluded.
