PCB alters Champions ODI Cup schedule due to ongoing Pakistan-Bangladesh series

The Champions One-Day Cup, originally slated to kick off on September 1, has been rescheduled to start on September 12, according to recent updates. 

This adjustment was made to accommodate the presence of all national team players, ensuring their full participation in the tournament.

The change in schedule aligns with the conclusion of the Test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which is set to end on September 3. 

The new start date will allow national players to fully engage in the domestic competition after fulfilling their international commitments.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad as the venue for the tournament. A delegation led by Nadeem Khan is scheduled to visit the stadium today to evaluate the facilities.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi previously emphasized the importance of the Champions tournaments in revitalizing Pakistan’s cricketing legacy. 

“Our current standings - sixth in Tests, fourth in ODIs and seventh in T20Is - do not reflect the true potential and legacy of Pakistan cricket. To restore our rightful place at the top of world cricket, we must innovate and strategically enhance, expand and strengthen our domestic structure. The introduction of the three Champions tournaments is a bold step in this direction," Naqvi said.

“The Champions tournaments will bring together our most talented and consistent performers from domestic cricket with our centrally contracted players, creating an environment that mirrors the intensity of international cricket. With broadcast matches, legendary mentors, elite coaching staff and extensive media coverage, these tournaments will provide our players with the exposure and experience they need,” he added.

On August 5th, the Pakistan Cricket Board announced the addition of three new tournaments, branded as the Champions One-Day Cup, Champions T20 Cup, and Champions First-Class Cup, to its Men’s Domestic Cricket Season 2024-25.

Key features of the newly introduced Champions tournaments include participation by five teams—Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, Stallions, and Wolves—in each event, contested in a double-league format.