Tag: Champions Trophy 2025

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Sunday, lauded Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his principled stance on hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ARY News reported.

Naqvi, who is also serving as the Federal Interior Minister, met the Prime Minister in Islamabad and briefed on the progress of the prestigious event, which will be hosted in Pakistan.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif conveyed his deep admiration for Mohsin Naqvi’s principled and steadfast approach to the upcoming tournament.

“Your stance on the Champions Trophy is the voice of every Pakistani,” Sharif remarked.

Shehbaz Sharif, displaying unwavering support, further expressed his complete confidence in Naqvi’s leadership in navigating the complexities of the tournament’s hosting arrangements.

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“In the ICC, you represented Pakistan’s 240 million people,” Sharif added. “Pakistan’s honour comes first, and everything else follows.”

Mohsin Naqvi confidently informed Sharif that the PCB is fully prepared to host the prestigious Champions Trophy tournament on home soil.

“The PCB is fully prepared to host the Champions Trophy tournament in Pakistan,” Naqvi asserted. “We want Pakistan and cricket to succeed.”

Currently, the deadlock surrounding the eight-team tournament is at a standstill as the International Cricket Council (ICC) is awaiting a response from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the PCB’s ‘fusion formula.’

The PCB proposed this ‘fusion formula’ in an effort to break the stalemate around the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

This proposal suggests that India, as they wanted, would be playing their matches at a neutral venue during the Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy. In exchange, the PCB is seeking a similar arrangement for future ICC events that will take place in India.

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Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has recently addressed the challenges faced by star batter Babar Azam and discussed his role in the team ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Babar Azam has been facing significant criticism lately due to his inconsistent performances in all three formats of the game.

However, during the recent ODI series victory against Australia, he provided a glimpse of his former brilliance and skill. He scored only 80 runs in three innings, but he got out only once and struck the winning boundary in both of Pakistan’s victories.

Despite his performance in ODIs, Babar’s struggles in the T20 format have drawn renewed scrutiny. In three T20I matches, he could muster only a mere 47 runs, raising concerns about his form and consistency.

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Shoaib Akhtar, while talking to a local news channel, warned that the star batter needs to regain his form and score heavy runs during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to retain his place in the Pakistan cricket team.

“He’s our star, I’ll back him up. But the thing is, with the new management, with a new mindset, he has to create a change in his ‘neurological wiring,’ otherwise, the new management might not consider him in T20Is and even ODIs,” Akhtar said.

The former pacer emphasized that a few good innings are not enough; Babar must score match-winning centuries.

“The Champions Trophy is the time and place where Babar needs to be at the forefront for Pakistan. He needs to dominate and score three centuries in the Champions Trophy that too in a match-winning cause,” he added.

“If he does that then definitely he can come back. But if not, then the path is going to be very difficult,” Akhtar concluded.

READ: Pakistan thump Bangladesh to clinch Blind T20 World Cup title

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a new ‘Partnership or Fusion Formula’ to end the stalemate around the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ARY News reported, citing sources.

According to sources, the PCB has forwarded its formula to the International Cricket Council (ICC), according to which Pakistan and India will play all of their game at a neutral venue for the next three years.

As per the Partnership or Fusion Formula, India will not travel to Pakistan and vice versa for their games in the ICC tournaments scheduled for the next three years.

Sources said that the ICC will take a decision on the matter after holding consultations with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The development came after the ICC on Friday adjourned the board meeting without a decision about the fate of the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in the February-March window next year in Pakistan.

The meeting was called after the BCCI refused to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament.

It is worth noting here that the BCCI suggested a hybrid model instead of travelling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and proposed India’s matches be held in Dubai.

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The PCB categorically rejected such a proposal and insists that it will hold the entirety of the tournament on its soil.

A day earlier, reports said that the PCB wrote to the International Cricket Council ahead of the scheduled board meeting.

In the letter, the Pakistan Cricket Board made it clear that the hybrid model, which would involve holding some matches in a neutral venue, was not acceptable for the Champions Trophy 2025.

Meanwhile, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, hinted at a new formula to be created based on parity for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Naqvi emphasised that any new formula regarding the ICC event must ensure equality and fairness.

“A lot of things are going on, I don’t want to comment too much because that can ruin everything, we have presented our point of view to ICC,” said Naqvi while speaking to the media at Dubai Stadium last week.

“India has also given its opinion, All the boards are trying to ensure a win-win situation for all, Pakistan also wants that cricket should win but anything with respect.”

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting scheduled for Saturday (today) regarding the hosting of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 has been postponed, ARY News reported, citing sources.

Recent reports indicate that the much-anticipated meeting might be rescheduled for either Sunday or Monday.

The delay in the meeting is primarily attributed to the fact that both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) require additional time to engage in consultations with their respective foreign ministries.

For the unversed, the meeting was initially scheduled for November 29. However, this crucial gathering was adjourned without reaching a definitive conclusion regarding the much-anticipated Champions Trophy.

The meeting was convened by ICC as a direct response to the BCCI announcing its refusal to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, which is slated to take place during the February-March window of next year.

The sources revealed that during the brief meeting, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, representatives from the 12 Full Member countries, three representatives from Associate nations, and an independent director were present, alongside the ICC chairman and CEO.

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During the meeting, Pakistan reasserted its firm opposition to any hybrid model that would spread matches across different venues.

The ICC is actively exploring a variety of options to address the complications surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025, particularly in light of India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan.

It is pertinent to note here that the BCCI has suggested a hybrid model instead of travelling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI proposed that India’s matches be held in Dubai.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has categorically rejected such a proposal and insists that it will hold the entirety of the tournament on its soil. A day earlier, reports said that the PCB wrote to the International Cricket Council ahead of the scheduled board meeting.

Sources said that the PCB made it clear that the hybrid model, which would involve holding some matches in a neutral venue, was not acceptable for the Champions Trophy 2025.

READ: It’s unacceptable that Pakistan visit India but they don’t: Mohsin Naqvi

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday adjourned the board meeting without a decision regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, ARY News reported, citing sources.

The board meeting was called after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament, scheduled in the February-March window next year.

According to sources, the meeting, comprising representatives from the 12 Full Member countries, three representatives from Associates, and an independent director alongside the ICC chairman and CEO, continued for around 15 minutes where Pakistan reiterated its stance against a hybrid model.

Meanwhile, sources said that ICC was considering various options to come up with a solution to the issues regarding Champions Trophy 2025 following India’s refusal to visit Pakistan.

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In this regard, the apex cricketing body is likely to convene another meeting within the next 48 hours to decide on the matter.

It is pertinent to note here that the BCCI has suggested a hybrid model instead of travelling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI proposed that India’s matches be held in Dubai.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has categorically rejected such a proposal and insists that it will hold the entirety of the tournament on its soil. A day earlier, reports said that the PCB wrote to the International Cricket Council ahead of the scheduled board meeting.

Sources said that the PCB made it clear that the hybrid model, which would involve holding some matches in a neutral venue, was not acceptable for the Champions Trophy 2025.

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Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has voiced his strong support for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as it stands firm on its decision to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 entirely within Pakistan despite India’s demand for adopting a hybrid model.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is slated to take place in the February-March window of 2025, but India’s participation remains shrouded in uncertainty.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on November 10 communicated to the PCB that the Indian government is currently unwilling to permit their cricket team to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.

In response, the PCB took proactive measures by sending a formal letter to the ICC, reflecting the concerns of the Pakistani government regarding India’s withdrawal.

Furthermore, the PCB has decisively rejected the notion of a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025. They reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to host the entire tournament within Pakistan as planned.

The PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday once again reiterated the cricket board’s stance against the hybrid model.

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“We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know,” Naqvi stated.

Shahid Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account and backed Naqvi’s stance in hosting the tournament completely in Pakistan. Meanwhile, he also urged the ICC to assert its authority against India.

“By intertwining politics with sports, the BCCI has placed international cricket in a precarious position,” Afridi posted.

“Fully support the PCB’s stance against the hybrid model – especially since Pakistan (despite security concerns) has toured India five times, including a bilateral white-ball series, post-26/11. It’s time for the ICC and its Board of Directors to uphold fairness and assert their authority.”

For the unversed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled a crucial board meeting for November 29.

The primary agenda will be to explore the future of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is slated to take place in Pakistan during the February-March window next year.

The board members will weigh various options, including the possibility of implementing a hybrid model, relocating the event entirely to a neutral venue, or postponing the tournament.

READ: It’s unacceptable that Pakistan visit India but they don’t: Mohsin Naqvi

The chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, expressed strong dissatisfaction on Thursday regarding India’s refusal to send its cricket team for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

During a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Naqvi emphasised the PCB’s commitment to putting Pakistan cricket first.

“Our stance is very clear,” he declared. “I promise we’ll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I’m constantly in touch with the ICC chairman, and my team is talking to them constantly.”

“We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know,” Mohsin Naqvi added.

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“Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved. But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it’s not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don’t come here.”

For the unversed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has scheduled a crucial board meeting for November 29.

The primary agenda will be to explore the future of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is slated to take place in Pakistan during the February-March window next year.

The board members will weigh various options, including the possibility of implementing a hybrid model, relocating the event entirely to a neutral venue, or postponing the tournament.

READ: Kamran Ghulam’s maiden ODI ton helps Pakistan to post 303-6 against Zimbabwe

The global trophy tour of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 came to an end in Pakistan on Monday. The coveted silverware is set to be transported to Afghanistan as part of the trophy tour.

Throughout its time in Pakistan, the trophy embarked on an adventurous path, traversing a variety of picturesque cities. It began its journey in the capital, Islamabad, before making its way to the scenic hills of Murree and Nathia Gali.

The trophy continued its travels to Abbottabad, Khanpur Dam, Taxila and Karachi. After a whirlwind tour, it has now returned to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Headquarters in Lahore, marking the conclusion of its leg in Pakistan.

The next stop for the trophy will be Afghanistan, where it will be on display from November 26 to 28. Following its time in Afghanistan, the Champions Trophy will head to Bangladesh, set to captivate fans from December 10 to 13.

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From there, the trophy will touch down in South Africa, continuing its international celebration from December 15 to 22.

The Champions Trophy will then venture to Australia, enthralling cricket enthusiasts from December 25 to January 5, before heading to New Zealand from January 6 to 11.

The journey will continue with a stop in England from January 12 to 14, where fans will have a chance to engage with the trophy.

The grand finale of this exciting global trophy tour of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place in India, where the trophy will be showcased from January 15 to 26.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 16 – 25 November – Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India
• 27 January – event start – Pakistan

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Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the country to their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, attended the trophy tour event at a private college in Karachi on Friday.

Sarfaraz received a hero’s welcome from students and faculty alike upon his arrival.

The wicket-keeper, while talking with students, reminisced about the unforgettable moments from their victorious campaign.

“All our players will remember every single moment from that event. It was a historic achievement for us,” he shared.

He posed proudly with the gleaming Champions Trophy, surrounded by the eager students, who were thrilled to be part of the occasion.

Originally, Sarfaraz Ahmed was scheduled to join the Champions Trophy tour at the iconic Mohatta Palace, however, due to permission issues, the photo shoot was relocated to the college.

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The ongoing Champions Trophy tour commenced in Karachi on November 20, captivating the city. On the inaugural day, the trophy was showcased at the vibrant Burns Road food street, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere of celebration.

The following day, the silverware was showcased at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, located in the National Bank Cricket Arena.

The trophy was later taken to the Edhi Centre followed by a picturesque photoshoot at Seaview, capturing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

It’s worth noting that the trophy’s tour of Karachi is set to continue until November 25. The much-anticipated journey of the prestigious silverware began with a grand launch at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on November 17.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India

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Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the country to their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, is set to make a special appearance later today at the iconic Mohatta Palace in Karachi as part of the prestigious trophy tour.

The sources have confirmed that Sarfaraz has received an exclusive invitation for a photoshoot at Mohatta Palace alongside the coveted Champions Trophy following the Friday prayers.

While fans will be unable to interact directly with the cricketing icon during this exclusive event, it is a celebration of Sarfaraz’s monumental contributions to the sport and the nation’s cricketing legacy.

Pakistan, under the inspired leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed, clinched the Champions Trophy in 2017, securing a historic 180-run victory over their arch-rivals India in the final.

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The ongoing Champions Trophy tour commenced in Karachi on November 20, captivating the city. On the inaugural day, the trophy was showcased at the vibrant Burns Road food street, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere of celebration.

The following day, the silverware was showcased at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, located in the National Bank Cricket Arena.

The trophy was later taken to the Edhi Centre followed by a picturesque photoshoot at Seaview, capturing the trophy against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

It’s worth noting that the trophy’s tour of Karachi is set to continue until November 25. The much-anticipated journey of the prestigious silverware began with a grand launch at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on November 17.

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 22 – 25 November – Karachi, Pakistan
• 26 – 28 November – Afghanistan
• 10 – 13 December – Bangladesh
• 15 – 22 December – South Africa
• 25 December – 5 January – Australia
• 6 – 11 January – New Zealand
• 12 – 14 January – England
• 15 – 26 January – India

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