The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan has taken center stage this week as the International Cricket Council (ICC) holds a crucial meeting in Dubai from October 18 to 21. PCB officials will present detailed updates on the preparations for the tournament and the progress made on construction projects.

The meeting's outcome will be pivotal for the Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. The BCCI's stance on participating in matches in Pakistan will be a key point of discussion, with the four-day meeting including a board meeting to review the tournament's progress.

England cricket board officials, currently in Multan, have also planned to travel to Dubai from Pakistan. This follows three previous ICC delegations' visits to Pakistan, all of which expressed satisfaction with the preparations. Despite potential hurdles from the Indian cricket board, PCB officials remain determined to host the mega event in Pakistan.

According to the proposed schedule, Pakistan has been placed in Group A alongside India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand for the Champions Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is awaiting government approval to confirm its participation in matches scheduled to be played in Pakistan.

Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi will host matches during the tournament. Lahore will be the focal point, hosting seven matches, including the final. Karachi will stage the opening match and a semi-final, while Rawalpindi will host five matches, including the other semi-final.

The semi-finals are set for March 5 and 6, leading up to the final on March 9.