The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed satisfaction with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) preparations for the upcoming 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, as reported by a local news outlet.
PCB Chairman Confirms Venue Renovations
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reassured ICC board members that renovation work at all three proposed venues will be completed ahead of the tournament. He highlighted these updates in his report presented on the final day of the ICC meeting.
Invitation for ICC Members
Naqvi extended an invitation to ICC members to visit Pakistan and evaluate the preparations for the much-anticipated event, which is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025. The final match is set for March 9, with a reserve day allocated for March 10.
Meeting Highlights and New Appointments
During the meeting, the ICC board also discussed potential adjustments to the tenure of the ICC Chair and Independent Director positions, proposing two to three-year terms subject to ICC membership approval. Additionally, several new appointments were announced: Scott Vennink was named as the Full Members’ representative on the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee, while Scott Edwards will represent the Associate Members. Dr. John MacLean has replaced Dr. Roger Hawkes on the ICC Medical Advisory Committee.
Tournament Structure and Groupings
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will feature eight teams. Pakistan will compete in Group A alongside India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Group B consists of England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan.
Venue Breakdown
Matches for the tournament will be held in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Lahore will host seven matches, including the final, while Karachi will kick off the tournament and host one semi-final. Rawalpindi is set to stage five matches, including the second semi-final.
