Salman Butt predicts Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan will outshine T20 World Cup 2024

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Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has expressed confidence that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted in Pakistan, will be a far more successful event than the recent ICC T20 World Cup 2024 held in the USA and West Indies. 

Butt's bold statement comes amidst uncertainty over India's participation due to the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) refusal of the allegedly proposed hybrid model for the tournament.

He highlighted the challenges faced by the T20 World Cup 2024, including subpar pitches and logistical issues, contrasting these with his prediction that the Champions Trophy 2025 will be a vibrant and grand event in the cricket-loving nation of Pakistan. 

The former opening batter emphasized the unparalleled passion for cricket in Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, noting that players receive immense love and respect in these regions.

He mentioned that players receive immense love and respect in these countries, and the logistical arrangements are exceptional. 

Butt is confident that the love and passion for cricket in the subcontinent will transform the Champions Trophy 2025 into a grand festival, celebrated by millions.

He believes this event will deliver an unforgettable experience for both fans and players, surpassing anything felt in the USA.

On his YouTube channel, Butt stated,  “There's no comparison of this event to the United States of America or any other such country. This will surely be a more successful event than the T20 World Cup. The pitches weren't up to the mark over there, the stadiums were too far, and the hotels were elsewhere. No locals knew what was happening in their cities, just the overseas people staying there knew about cricket.”

He further added, “When such a trophy comes to this part of the world, be it in India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh, the love and respect that the players will receive will be different. Also, the teams won't have to travel for hours. Everything will be sealed and it will take just six minutes for the team to reach the stadium. This is presidential security; such a feeling can never be there in the USA.”

Notably, Pakistan will be hosting its first major tournament since the 2008 Asia Cup, and the PCB is working hard to make the event memorable. However, India's reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 remains a significant concern for the PCB.