The issue of the 2025 Champions Trophy has been a topic of controversy for several months. Recently, there was a debate over the hybrid model, and now concerns are being raised about the readiness of the stadiums in Pakistan. Matches for the Champions Trophy will be played in Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore. However, pictures of these stadiums have surfaced, showing incomplete construction work, poor seating arrangements, and scattered gravel due to ongoing work. In response to these concerns, PCB Chairman Mohsin Raza Naqvi has issued a statement.
Speaking to the media, Naqvi said, “There are many people across the border who have been saying that the Champions Trophy will be shifted out of Pakistan because the stadiums will not be ready on time. But I can announce that we are fully prepared to host both the Tri-Series and the Champions Trophy.”
Indirectly Targeting India
Without directly naming India, Naqvi pointed out, “Many people across the border have been trying to find faults in our stadiums and arrangements, but they will not find any opportunity to do so. We will welcome all teams, take care of their security, and ensure the arrangements are top-notch. The PCB team is working day and night to make sure the tournament runs smoothly.”
Pakistan’s Squad Announced for Champions Trophy
The Pakistan Cricket Board announced its 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy last Friday. Mohammad Rizwan will lead the team, and Fakhar Zaman, who scored a century in the final against India during the 2017 Champions Trophy, has made a comeback. However, star batter Sam Ayub could not make it to the squad due to injury.
Here is Pakistan’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy:
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain)
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakil
- Tayyab Tahir
- Faheem Ashraf
- Khushdil Shah
- Salman Ali Agha
- Usman Khan
- Abrar Ahmed
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
