Tag: Champions Trophy 2025

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday announced that Sumair Ahmad has been appointed as the Tournament Director for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Sumair Ahmad Syed, Chief Operating Officer of the PCB, as the Tournament Director for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place in Pakistan,” the PCB stated in a press release.

PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi:

“Sumair is an exceptionally organised professional with a wealth of administrative expertise. Coupled with his unwavering passion for cricket, I am confident he will deliver an unforgettable ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for players, officials and fans alike.

“The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to showcase Pakistan’s ability to host world-class cricketing events, welcoming players and fans from around the globe to experience the country’s passion for the game and renowned hospitality.

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“This tournament marks a historic milestone as the biggest sporting event in Pakistan’s recent history. With Sumair leading the way, the global cricket community can rest assured that the event will meet the highest standards of excellence synonymous with Pakistan.”

Tournament Director Sumair Ahmad Syed:

“I am deeply honored and excited to take on this significant responsibility for a tournament that holds immense importance for the Pakistan Cricket Board, our fans and supporters. Preparations are already well underway, with stadium upgrades nearing completion and crucial discussions ongoing with the International Cricket Council.

“Our experienced events team, which has successfully planned and executed nine multi-team HBL Pakistan Super Leagues, including last five in Pakistan, will play a vital role in ensuring the tournament’s success.

“I am committed to working closely with them as well as the International Cricket Council, leaving no stone unturned to exceed the benchmarks set by previous ICC Champions Trophy editions.”

READ: Former Pakistan captain suggests Sahibzada Farhan is not ‘international material’

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced the schedule of the Global Trophy Tour for the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be played in Pakistan.

The highly anticipated trophy tour kicked off today in the vibrant city of Islamabad. Over the coming weeks, the tour will journey through eight participating nations, giving cricket enthusiasts an unforgettable chance to engage with the celebrated trophy.

Fans will have the opportunity to take photos, share their passion for the game, and experience the thrill of being close to the coveted trophy.

Fans in Islamabad can witness the trophy on display at famous landmarks such as Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument where it will be accompanied by Pakistan cricket icon Shoaib Akhtar.

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“A series of physical and digital engagements traversing iconic destinations, sporting events, and key battles in the international cricket calendar form the Trophy Tour schedule,” the ICC stated in its press release.

“Fans will be treated to a content series titled ‘Champion on Tour’ that will document the Trophy Tour’s journey around the world through the unique lens of food, music, and cricket.”

The ICC’s Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya expressed his pleasure at the launch of the Trophy Tour for the Champions Trophy 2025.

“We are delighted to launch the Trophy Tour with DP World ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, where another action-packed programme of activity is available to fans across the world,” said Dahiya.

“The silverware, which will be showcased across all participating nations, will allow the sport’s passionate fanbase to enjoy the unforgettable experience of being up close with the iconic trophy.”

Schedule of Trophy Tour of Champions Trophy 2025

• 16 November – Islamabad, Pakistan
• 17 November – Taxila and Khanpur, Pakistan
• 18 November – Abbottabad, Pakistan
• 19 November- Murree, Pakistan
• 20 November- Nathia Gali, Pakistan
• 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
• 27 January – event start – Pakistan

READ: Champions Trophy: BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla reiterates India’s stance on visiting Pakistan

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has requested written reasons from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding its refusal to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, ARY News reported citing sources.

According to sources, the ICC has asked the BCCI to provide solid reasons for its decision, which must align with the organisation’s rules and regulations. If the explanations are deemed unsatisfactory, the ICC may direct India to participate in the tournament.

Sources revealed that India’s absence could result in a staggering financial loss for the ICC, estimated at $500 million. Moreover, the absence of highly-anticipated Indo-Pak matches could lead to an additional $100 million loss.

The development came amid uncertainty regarding the schedule of the tournament after the Indian government refused to send its team to Pakistan for the event.

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) was set to release the schedule earlier this week, however, the ambiguity regarding India’s travel plans to Pakistan resulted in a delay in the announcement of the schedule.

It is to be noted here that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC on November 9 that India would not travel to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

Sources reported that the PCB has sought official clarification and concrete reasons for India’s refusal to tour Pakistan in a letter.

In its letter, the PCB clearly stated that hosting the Champions Trophy using a hybrid model is not an option, emphasizing that Pakistan will not compete against India at any alternate venue.

READ: ‘The King is back in his territory’: Ravi Shastri warns critics of Virat Kohli

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tour schedule as the trophy arrived in Islamabad on Thursday.

The cricket board announced the schedule on their official social media accounts with the trophy tour commencing on November 16 in the capital city.

“Get ready, Pakistan,” the PCB posted. “The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 trophy tour kicks off in Islamabad on 16 November, also visiting scenic travel destinations like Skardu, Murree, Hunza and Muzaffarabad.”

“Catch a glimpse of the trophy which Sarfaraz Ahmed lifted in 2017 at The Oval, from 16-24 November.”

The announcement of the trophy tour came amid uncertainty regarding the schedule of the Champions Trophy 2025 after the Indian government refused to send its team to Pakistan for the event.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) was set to release the schedule earlier this week, however, the ambiguity regarding India’s travel plans to Pakistan resulted in a delay in the announcement of the schedule.

It is to be noted here that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC on November 9 that India would not travel to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

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The cricket board sent a letter to the ICC earlier this week following directives from the country’s government to express its concerns. The PCB conveyed that the Pakistani government is determined to host the entire tournament.

Sources reported that the PCB has sought official clarification and concrete reasons for India’s refusal to tour Pakistan in a letter.

India has not travelled to Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008 due to the long-standing political tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

In contrast, Pakistan has made four trips to India in the last 16 years. Their most recent visit was last year for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

READ: Kane Williamson returns to New Zealand squad for England Test series

Broadcasters have urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to promptly release the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, as reported by ARY News on Thursday.

The schedule was originally set to be released earlier this week; however, the announcement was delayed after the government of India refused to send its team to Pakistan for the event.

The broadcasting rights, awarded to broadcasters until 2027 for a record $3 billion, hinge largely on the popularity of marquee matches, particularly between Pakistan and India, which consistently draw the highest viewership.

Broadcasters earn the highest revenue from Pakistan-India games, as these matches attract massive audiences and generate significant advertising revenue.

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The early release of the schedule would aid broadcasters in maximizing their promotional and commercial planning for these high-stakes events.

On November 9, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India would not travel to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the BCCI officially informed the ICC that the Indian government advised against sending the team to Pakistan.

It must be noted India has not travelled to Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008 due to the long-standing political tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

In contrast, Pakistan has made four trips to India in the last 16 years. Their most recent visit was last year for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

READ: South Africa suffer major blow ahead of series against Pakistan

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi delivered a subtle message to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), urging them to “put differences aside” for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

This appeal came in the wake of reports of BCCI declining to send their team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February- March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

Additionally, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

The announcement of India’s refusal sparked a significant backlash among several former cricketers, who expressed their disappointment and frustration. Among them, Shahid Afridi has emerged as the latest voice to comment on the situation.

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Afridi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to urge all cricketing nations to come together and visit Pakistan for the tournament. He referenced the Olympics as an example, where many countries participated together despite their historical and political issues.

“Cricket is at a crucial crossroads, facing perhaps one of its greatest challenges since the late 1970s. Now is the time to put differences aside and let the game unite us,” Afridi posted.

“If countries once divided by history can come together in the Olympic spirit, why can’t we do the same for cricket – and for the Champions Trophy?”

He subtly criticized the BCCI and urged them not to let egos interfere with sports.

“As stewards of this game, we owe it to cricket to keep egos in check and focus on its growth and spirit,” he added.

“I hope to see every team in Pakistan for CT25, to experience our warmth and hospitality, and to leave with unforgettable memories that transcend the field.”

READ: Mohammad Amir calls to ‘keep India out’ of Champions Trophy 2025

Left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir reacted strongly after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly refused to tour Pakistan for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February- March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

Additionally, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

The news of India’s refusal was not well received by many former cricketers in Pakistan, including Mohammad Amir.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the left-arm pacer termed BCCI’s decision a ‘loss of cricket,’ while calling for replacing India if they don’t tour Pakistan.

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“This is the loss of cricket, and this shouldn’t have happened. You can’t make other teams suffer because of one team,” Amir stated.

“It would be better to keep India out of the tournament and add another team in their place. It is childish to refuse to play in Pakistan when other teams are ready to compete here.”

Mohammad Amir, who played a key role in Pakistan’s victory against India in the final of Champions Trophy 2017, opined that the ICC should be authorised to take action against a member board if its government politicises the game.

“There should be a rule in place where ICC has the authority to take strict action against a member board of their government who interferes in cricketing matters. Otherwise, every other team will say they will not travel here and there,” Mohammad Amir stated.

He expressed hope that the PCB would reject India’s demands and remain steadfast in its commitment to host the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.

“It seems the PCB is not going to fall in line this time as Mohsin Naqvi is the country’s interior minister, and he is not going to let Pakistan suffer after spending millions on the upgrades of the stadiums,” he concluded.

READ: Mohammad Rizwan opens up on Amir, Imad’s absence from T20I squad

Pakistan white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan extended a heartfelt invitation to India men’s cricket team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The upcoming ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February-March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

However, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

Mohammad Rizwan, during the media talk at The Gabba in Brisbane ahead of the first T20I against Australia, was asked about the ongoing controversy regarding India’s visit to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

The 32-year-older extended an invitation to Indian players while also expressing hope that a decision would be taken on the matter soon.

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“KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav [and other players] are all welcome. All the players who will come, we will welcome them,” said Rizwan.

“[But] this is not our decision; this is PCB’s decision. Hopefully, they will all discuss and take the right call. But we are hopeful that if the Indian players will come, we will welcome them,” he added.

India has not travelled to Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008 due to the long-standing political tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

In contrast, Pakistan has made four trips to India in the last 16 years. Their most recent visit was last year for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

Last month, in an interview, Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged the hospitality Pakistan players received, during the World Cup 2023, and asserted that the Indian players would be treated similarly.

“Pakistan fans love Indian players; we received love in India as well (during the 2023 World Cup). We also want India to come to Pakistan and play here. I’m unsure if they’re coming for the Champions Trophy, but one thing is certain – if they come, they’ll receive an awesome welcome here,” stated Rizwan.

READ: Rizwan opens up on Amir, Imad’s absence from T20I squad

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to clarify India’s decision to refuse a visit to the neighbouring country for the Champions Trophy 2025.

The upcoming ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February-March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

However, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

In response, the PCB has been considering different options at the moment, with a possibility of them opting out of the tournament completely in case of a hybrid model, sources reported.

Pakistan had previously rejected the option of a hybrid arrangement that would allow India to play their matches at neutral venues, for example in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“The PCB has responded to last week’s ICC letter seeking clarifications for the Indian Board’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for next year’s Champions Trophy,” Sami-Ul-Hasan told AFP.

Deteriorating political ties have meant the bitter rivals have not played a bilateral cricket series for over a decade — squaring off only in ICC multi-nation events.

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Pakistani media reported on Tuesday that the PCB would be unwilling to accept security reasons for India’s refusal to visit.

New Zealand have toured Pakistan three times in the past two years, with England visiting twice and Australia once in the same period.

Pakistan also visited India for last year’s ODI World Cup and the PCB had expected the gesture to be reciprocated for the Champions Trophy.

“Almost every country wants the tournament to be played in Pakistan and it will be disappointing if they don’t come,” Naqvi, who is also the interior minister, said last week.

“I don’t think anyone should make this a political matter. We’ll give every team as many facilities as we can.”

Naqvi said Pakistan would consider pulling out of events in India as a response.

“Pakistan has shown great gestures to India in the past, and we’d like to say clearly India shouldn’t expect such friendly gestures from us every time”.

India is due to host the women’s ODI World Cup and Asia Cup next year and will co-host the Twenty20 World Cup with Sri Lanka in 2026.

READ: Shaheen Afridi reclaims number one spot in ICC ODI Bowling Rankings

Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has announced that he will retire from ODI cricket after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The 39-year-old announced his decision after his side defeated Bangladesh in the three-match ODI series 2-1.

He claimed the Player of the Series for his all-round brilliance as he scored 135 runs and took two wickets in three games.

“In my mind, from the last World Cup, I was retired but then we qualified for the Champions Trophy and I felt if I could play that, it would be great,” Nabi stated.

However, he will continue to represent Afghanistan in the T20I cricket and has communicated his decision to the country’s cricket board.

Mohammad Nabi has played 167 ODIs, the highest for any player from Afghanistan, since debuting in the country’s first official ODI in 2009 against Scotland.

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He is the second-highest run-scorer for Afghanistan in ODI cricket, having accumulated 3,600 runs at an average of 27.48, including two centuries and 17 half-centuries.

The off-spinner is also second in the list of highest wicket-takers with 172 wickets at an average of 32.47.

It’s worth noting that Afghanistan will be making their first-ever appearance at the Champions Trophy during the upcoming edition next year.

The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the February- March window in 2025, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain.

Previously, reports emerged in Indian media, citing a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), that Team India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament citing security concerns.

Additionally, on Sunday, sources confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the Indian government is not ready to allow their cricket team to travel to Pakistan.

READ: Champions Trophy 2025: PCB rejects ‘hybrid model’ in letter to ICC