LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi said that the neutral venue for India’s upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 matches would be finalised today.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) had earlier confirmed that the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025,-the premier ODI competition- will be hosted by Pakistan under a hybrid model, with India set to play their matches at a neutral venue.
During a media talk at Karachi Stadium, Naqvi highlighted ongoing upgrades at the venue, including a new building, replacement of fencing, and the development of parking facilities for 2,700 vehicles to address parking challenges.
“The stadium will be in excellent condition,” Naqvi assured, adding that renovation work in Karachi was progressing faster than in Lahore. He noted that two large screens and LED lights were being installed, with the work expected to be completed by January 15.
Speaking on India’s matches, Naqvi stated, “The International Cricket Council (ICC) will announce the schedule after reviewing PCB’s recommendations.” He also confirmed that Pakistan would play at neutral venues for the next three years, including the final if they qualify. A tentative schedule for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was revealed on Saturday. As per the schedule, the tournament will kick off with the first match between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
The PCB chairman’s remarks come as preparations intensify for the high-profile Champions Trophy, with efforts underway to ensure world-class facilities and fair selection practices.
Pakistan, the winners of the last Champions Trophy in 2017, is set to host the tournament from February 19 to March 9, 2024.
The Champions Trophy is the premier ODI competition after the World Cup, with the upcoming event featuring Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa.
Any cricket match between the two is among the most-watched events on the global sporting calendar. Pakistan visited India for last year’s ODI World Cup, and the PCB expected the gesture to be reciprocated for the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan was forced to stage last year’s Asia Cup using a hybrid model, with India playing their matches (in addition to the final) in Sri Lanka.
India and Pakistan have only faced off in ICC multi-nation events since their last bilateral series in the 2012-13 season while India has not toured Pakistan since 2008.
Pakistan to not travel to India for next year’s Twenty20, ODI World Cup
In the next three years, India is due to host the women’s ODI World Cup and Asia Cup next year and will co-host the Twenty20 World Cup with Sri Lanka in 2026.
