After nearly three decades, Pakistan is set to host a major international cricket event, marking a significant milestone for the country’s cricketing landscape. The last time Pakistan hosted a major global cricket event was in 1996, when Sri Lanka, led by Arjuna Ranatunga, won the Cricket World Cup at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. That victory was historic not only for Sri Lanka but also for Pakistan, as it was the first time a host nation had lifted the trophy. Since then, Pakistan has faced a long and arduous journey to regain its status as a viable host for international cricket, largely due to security concerns and geopolitical tensions. Now, with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 scheduled to begin on February 19, Pakistan is once again welcoming the world’s top teams, signaling a potential turning point for the country’s cricketing future.
The tournament, which will feature 15 matches and the top eight men’s teams based on ICC rankings, including Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa, is a testament to Pakistan’s relentless efforts to revive its reputation as a host nation. Pakistan will host 11 out of 15 matches, with the final scheduled for March 9 in Rawalpindi. India, however, has opted out of playing its matches in Pakistan, citing its government’s policy since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and will instead play all its matches in Dubai, including the final if they qualify. This compromise underscores the challenges Pakistan has faced in convincing teams to visit, but it also highlights the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) determination to bring international cricket back to the country.
Hosting the Champions Trophy is not just a sporting victory for Pakistan but also a cultural and economic one. Cricket is more than just a sport in South Asia; it is a unifying force that transcends borders. For Pakistan, which has been largely isolated from hosting major international events since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, this tournament represents a chance to reclaim its place on the global cricketing stage. As Sharda Ugra, an Indian cricket analyst, noted, hosting such events helps change perceptions and fosters unity. The PCB views the tournament as an opportunity to reignite fans’ passion for the sport and to generate economic activity through ticket sales, tourism, and hospitality.
However, the journey to this point has been fraught with challenges. Pakistan’s isolation from international cricket began in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, which led to increased violence and security concerns. The 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore marked a nadir, forcing Pakistan to play its “home” matches at neutral venues, primarily in the UAE. Over the years, the PCB has worked tirelessly to rebuild trust, hosting international teams in recent years and successfully organizing the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which has featured top international players. The PCB has also invested heavily in upgrading its cricket stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, with renovations costing nearly 12 billion Pakistani rupees ($43 million).
Despite these efforts, the tournament has been overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, particularly India’s refusal to play in Pakistan. India’s decision has reignited debates about the influence of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the ICC and the politicization of sports. The BCCI’s financial dominance, with India contributing nearly 40% of the ICC’s revenue, has given it significant leverage. This has led to accusations that the ICC has failed to address the concerns of other member boards, including Pakistan. The hybrid format of the tournament, with India playing its matches in Dubai, has been criticized as a compromise that undermines the spirit of the event.
The success of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan will depend not only on the cricket being played but also on the country’s ability to deliver a safe and well-organized event. Security remains a critical concern, though the PCB has assured that all major venues have been cleared by the ICC’s security team. The tournament also presents an opportunity for Pakistan’s players to showcase their talent on the global stage, potentially increasing their appeal for international leagues like the IPL. As Ali Khan, an associate professor at the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), noted, the tournament is a chance for Pakistan to prove itself as a capable host and to redefine its image as a nation that can stage high-profile events without incident.
In conclusion, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is more than just a cricket tournament for Pakistan; it is a defining moment in the country’s sporting history. After decades of isolation and challenges, Pakistan is finally getting the opportunity to welcome the world’s top cricketing nations, showcasing its resilience and determination. While the absence of India adds a layer of complexity, the tournament’s hybrid format reflects the compromises needed to keep cricket’s spirit alive. For Pakistan, the success of this event could pave the way for a brighter future, both on and off the pitch, proving that the country is ready to reclaim its rightful place in international cricket.
