The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed Lahore as the home base for the Indian cricket team during the ICC Champions Trophy next year. This suggestion is part of the PCB’s effort to ensure optimal security arrangements for their neighbors. According to a reliable source within the PCB, this recommendation was included in the draft schedule submitted to the ICC in late April.
“Yes, Lahore has been suggested as the home base for the Indian team to reduce their travel and to provide them with the best security arrangements,” the source confirmed.
Last year, India declined to play in the Asia Cup hosted by Pakistan due to security concerns, leading to their matches being relocated to Sri Lanka. The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9 next year, will be a significant event for Pakistan.
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This marks the first major ICC tournament hosted by Pakistan since 1996, although they did host the entire Asia Cup in 2008 and parts of it last year. The draft schedule, which also includes Karachi and Rawalpindi as potential venues, is still pending approval by the ICC executive board.
Champions Trophy 2025 venues:
-Seven matches in Lahore
-Five matches in Rawalpindi
-Three matches in Karachi.Opening match in Karachi on 19th Feb and Final in Lahore on 9th March. pic.twitter.com/JU8rX8PRzJ
— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) June 10, 2024
The BCCI has yet to officially confirm whether the Indian national team will participate in the ICC event in Pakistan. However, the PCB is proceeding with preparations, as highlighted by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Following Pakistan’s narrow six-run loss to India in the T20 World Cup in New York, Naqvi indicated that a significant overhaul of the Pakistan team is on the horizon. In preparation for the Champions Trophy, the PCB plans to upgrade all three stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
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Additionally, the PCB announced that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be scheduled for April next year, considering the Champions Trophy and a planned tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand. These upgrades and events aim to bolster Pakistan’s readiness to host international cricket and ensure a successful ICC Champions Trophy.
