2025 Champions Trophy hosting at stake as PCB chief departs for crucial ICC board meeting in Dubai

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, is all set to attend a significant ICC board meeting today in Dubai. Naqvi departed from Lahore early this morning after conducting an inspection of ongoing construction work at Gaddafi Stadium.

In addition to attending the meeting, the PCB chief is also expected to hold discussions with officials from the Indian Cricket Board. The agenda of the meeting will focus on the preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, where the board head will provide an update on the progress made so far.

The ICC meetings, which have been underway since October 19, have seen Pakistan represented by Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer. Today’s final board meeting is considered crucial, especially in relation to Pakistan’s role as the host nation for the upcoming ICC event. Naqvi will brief the board on the renovation efforts at Gaddafi Stadium, National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

ICC delegations have already expressed satisfaction with the construction work currently underway in Pakistan, ensuring that the country remains on track for the high-profile tournament. The board members have also approved the budget for the event, further solidifying Pakistan's preparations.

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be held from February 19 to March 9, with a reserve day scheduled on March 10. Pakistan will compete in Group A alongside India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B features England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan.

Matches are set to take place across three major cities: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Lahore will host seven games, including the grand final on March 9, while Karachi will stage the tournament opener and one semi-final. Rawalpindi will host five matches, including the other semi-final.