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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has found itself amidst another controversy after the ICC decided to host Champions Trophy 2025 in a hybrid model. Notably, the South Asian nation which was in the news regarding the hosting of the prestigious ICC tournament, has once again found itself in hot waters 44 days ahead of the tournament. After India refused to travel to the other side of the border, ICC decided to go for a hybrid model for the forthcoming event as well as for those which India will host till 2027.
Amid Pakistan’s strong backlash, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had made some bold claims about how the board tried its best to transform the stadiums across three venues in Lahore, Karachi and Rawapindi. However, with only 44 days to go for the tournament, visuals of the stadiums have emerged, showing that they are far from ready to host the ICC event. The PCB, being the host of the 2025 Champions Trophy is supposed to hand over all stadiums to the International Cricket Council (ICC) by February 12, 2025. However, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, whose construction began in August 2024, is still far from being ready.
Champions Trophy to move out of Pakistan? Reports make big claims
In a video doing rounds on social media, PCB supremo Mohsin Naqvi was seen visiting the Gaddafi Stadium. The video highlighted the poor conditions of the stadium, much contrary to Naqvi’s claims. As per the current situation, the stadium is not anywhere near hosting a match of such stature. According to multiple reports on the internet, the ICC will monitor the progress next week to assess the status. If the PCB misses the deadlines and the venues don't meet the required checklist, the entire tournament could shift to the UAE.
Speaking of the contest, the forthcoming edition will feature top eight cricketing nations and 15 matches in a hybrid model. The matches are scheduled across Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Men in Blue will play their matches in Dubai, including the final, subject to their qualification.
