Pakistan are set to host their first ICC event in 29 years with the launch of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy at the Dewan-e-Khas of Lahore Fort. The opening match is scheduled for February 19 between Pakistan and New Zealand.
The Curtain Raiser event featured the illumination of Lahore Fort, offering a preview of the upcoming tournament. This marks the return of the Champions Trophy since its last edition in 2017.
Pakistan enter the tournament as defending champions after winning the 2017 Champions Trophy in the United Kingdom. Members of the victorious 2017 squad participated in the Curtain Raiser event at Lahore Fort, where Pakistan had defeated India by 180 runs in the final at The Oval, London.
“The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will return to Pakistan for the first time in 29 years. This tournament is more than just cricket; it is an opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s hospitality and passion,” said PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi at the Curtain Raiser event.
Lahore Fort was selected as the venue for the tournament’s official launch due to its historical significance. “The significance of the venue, (it) not only represents Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage but also underscores the deep-rooted legacy of cricket in the nation.”
“This is your moment to fill the stadiums,” Naqvi added, addressing Pakistani cricket fans who have been awaiting an ICC event’s return to their country.
The tournament format placed Pakistan in a group with New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh. The second group consists of Australia, England, South Africa, and first-time participants Afghanistan.
India will play their games, starting with the opener against Bangladesh on February 20, in Dubai.
The competition structure allows the top two teams from each group to advance to the semi-finals.
