Pakistan’s passionate cricket fans finally rejoice as their nation hosts the ICC Champions Trophy for the first time since 1996. A deadly 2009 terrorist attack on Sri Lankan players froze international cricket here for a decade until cautious returns began in 2019. ‘This tournament proves Pakistan can safeguard global sports,’ stated PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi during Gaddafi Stadium’s unveiling.
Geopolitical tensions forced a hybrid model: India will play all matches in Dubai despite Pakistan being the official host. This marks the eighth consecutive ICC event where these archrivals avoid bilateral tours.
‘Cricket shouldn’t suffer for politics, but player safety is non-negotiable,’an ICC spokesperson told AP.
Key infrastructure upgrades include:
- Gaddafi Stadium (Lahore): Full reconstruction in 117 days
- National Bank Stadium (Karachi): Expanded seating & floodlights
- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium: New media centers & VIP boxes
Controversies loom as England and South Africa face pressure to boycott Afghanistan over Taliban-era women’s rights abuses. Australia enters weakened with Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood all injured. Meanwhile, India’s Jasprit Bumrah remains sidelined by back issues.
The 8-nation tournament features two groups:
- Group A: Pakistan (host), India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: England, South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan
With $23M spent on security and venue modernization, all eyes turn to Karachi’s opener between Pakistan and New Zealand this Wednesday. If India misses the March 9 final, Lahore’s rebuilt arena will still host cricket’s newest chapter in a nation starved of live mega-events.
