Pakistan Cricket Board Refutes Claims of Champions Trophy Rescheduling

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Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly denied recent media reports suggesting a rescheduling of the Champions Trophy 2025. Contrary to speculation, the PCB remains committed to hosting the prestigious tournament as planned. The PCB has already submitted a draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC), proposing that the Champions Trophy be played between February 19 and March 9.

PCB’s stance on hosting Champions Trophy

Media outlets misrepresented comments made by PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi during a recent interaction. Naqvi had emphasized completing renovation work at three main cricket centres—Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi—before the tournament. However, this does not imply any change in the Champions Trophy dates.

“It is disappointing that certain media outlets have misrepresented PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi’s comments from yesterday’s media interaction, misleadingly quoting him on the possibility of change of dates for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to security concerns, thus creating unnecessary sensationalism,” the PCB said.

“During the media talk, which is available on the PCB’s official YouTube channel, the PCB Chair clearly stated that the redevelopment and redesign of the three designated stadia would be completed on schedule, ensuring readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB Chair also mentioned that while some domestic matches may need to be shifted to facilitate uninterrupted construction work, this in no way pertains to the ICC Champions Trophy, which remains a priority for the PCB as a premier eight-team international event,” it added.

“In line with this commitment, the PCB has already submitted a draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC), with the proposed dates spanning from 19 February to 9 March 2025,” it added.

While some domestic matches may need to be shifted to facilitate construction work, the ICC CT remains a priority for the PCB. The board is keen on hosting a world-class event, and security concerns have not altered their commitment.