PCB Chairman reviews Rawalpindi Stadium upgradation ahead of Champions Trophy

RAWALPINDI: Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket (PCB), visited the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium here on Wednesday to inspect the ongoing construction work ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

PCB Chairman expressed satisfaction over the upgradation of the Rawalpindi Stadium as preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy are in its final phase.

During his visit to the stadium, he reviewed the renovation of the main pavilion, media boxes, and VIP enclosures, ensuring that all arrangements were on track for the mega event.

“The upgradation project is in its final stages, and I am pleased with the progress,” Naqvi said while inspecting the finishing work.

“The main pavilion and media box have been fully renovated, while the installation of chairs in the enclosures will be completed in the next few days.”

Mohsin Naqvi also assessed the proposed security arrangements for the participating teams and emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to host an ICC event after a long gap.

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“It’s a proud moment for Pakistan. We are fully prepared to make this tournament a grand success,” he stated.

“We will make this event truly memorable, and I hope cricket lovers will witness thrilling contests.”

It’s worth noting that the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The eight-team tournament will consist of 15 matches over 19 days and will take place in Pakistan and Dubai.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host three matches in the tournament. Bangladesh will face New Zealand on 24 February, while Australia and South Africa will square off on 25 February.

The final match on the venue will be played between Pakistan and Bangladesh on 27 February.

READ: Shaheen Afridi reminisces Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2017 victory

Champions Trophy 2025: Mohsin Naqvi invites USA cricket CEO to visit Pakistan

WASHINGTON: Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi met with the USA Cricket Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jonathan Atkinson and invited him to visit Pakistan for the highly-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Pakistan Super League (PSL) CEO Salman Naseer was also present at the meeting, which focused on mutual plans to promote cricket in both nations.

During the meeting, both cricket boards agreed to finalize a cricket series structure between Pakistan and the USA.

Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi assured USA Cricket CEO of training American cricket coaches in Pakistan, realizing the importance of cricket development between the two countries.

During the meeting, Mohsin Naqvi highlighted the importance of vast opportunities between the two countries for promoting cricket.

CEO Jonathan Atkinson expressed gratitude for the invitation and support extended by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

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It’s worth noting that the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The eight-team tournament will consist of 15 matches over 19 days and will take place in Pakistan and Dubai.

In Pakistan, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi will be the three venues to host Champions Trophy 2025 matches. Each Pakistan venue will feature three group games apiece, with Lahore hosting the second semi-final.

Lahore will also host the final on 9 March, unless India qualify, in which case it will be played in Dubai.

Both the semi-finals and the final will have reserve days. The three group matches involving India, as well as the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.

READ: Tickets for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to go on sale from THIS date

Saim Ayub heads to London for urgent treatment after ankle injury

CAPE TOWN: Pakistan’s young batting sensation, Saim Ayub has flown to London from here on Tuesday for immediate medical attention following an ankle injury sustained during the second Test against South Africa.

The left-handed batter suffered a right ankle fracture while fielding on Friday, the first day of the aforementioned Test, which Pakistan lost by ten wickets.

Pakistan’s assistant Coach Azhar Mahmood also accompanied Saim for his treatment in London.

Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has taken a personal interest in Saim’s well-being, guaranteeing that he receives the highest standard of medical care available.

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Following Naqvi’s directives, the young batter is scheduled for an extensive examination by renowned sports orthopaedic specialists in England tomorrow, as they work to assess the extent of his injury and chart a path for his rehabilitation.

“Saim Ayub is a valuable asset for Pakistan cricket,” Naqvi stated. “We will provide every possible resource for his treatment and recovery.”

Naqvi also extended his heartfelt wishes for the player’s swift recovery.

“I am praying for his complete health and will continue to monitor his condition closely by staying in constant contact with the doctors,” he remarked.

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For the unversed, Saim Ayub sustained the injury in the seventh over of South Africa’s first innings when Ryan Rickelton, who went on to play a marathon 259-run knock, played a fuller-length delivery from Mohammad Abbas past the slip cordon into the deep third-wicket region.

Saim, quick on his feet, dashed in to act as the relay fielder, as Aamir Jamal valiantly attempted to haul the ball back from the boundary at deep third-man.

However, in a heartbreaking moment, Saim lost his balance and stumbled backwards, struggling to regain his footing.

He was attended to by medical staff on the field, but his painful grimaces made it evident that he was in significant distress. Ultimately, he was carried off the field after he struggled to stand on his feet.

READ: South Africa thump Pakistan in second Test to sweep series

PCB chief reacts to Pakistan’s clean sweep victory against South Africa

The Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi has extended his heartiest congratulations to the Pakistan men’s cricket team for their historic clean sweep victory in the ODI series against South Africa on Friday.

Pakistan, under the inspired leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, became the first-ever team to clean-sweep the Proteas in an ODI series in South Africa after their 36-run victory in the third and final match.

Following the victory, Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the whole team on their dominant performance and attributed the victory to the combined efforts of all the players.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the national team for winning the third ODI and completing a clean sweep against South Africa,” Naqvi stated.

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“The result of teamwork is reflected in this remarkable success. The Pakistani team displayed confidence, passion, and hard work on the field.”

He heaped high praise on Saim Ayub, who played a 101-run knock in the third ODI and clinched the Player of the Match as well as Player of the Series awards.

The chairman also lauded the contributions of Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and young bowler Sufiyan Muqeem.

“Once again, Saim Ayub showcased his class by scoring a century and playing a pivotal role in the victory,” he added.

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“Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam batted exceptionally well, while Sufiyan Muqeem won the hearts of the nation with his outstanding bowling performance.”

He expressed his belief that this victory will provide the Green Shirts with a much-needed boost in momentum ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

“This victory will boost the players’ morale and inspire the Pakistani team to maintain their performance in the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament,” he concluded.

READ: Saim Ayub joins Virat Kohli, Fakhar Zaman in exclusive club

PCB Chairman reviews Champions Trophy arrangements at Gaddafi Stadium

LAHORE: Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket (PCB), visited the Gaddafi Stadium here on Thursday to inspect the ongoing construction work ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

During his visit, he reviewed the progress and directed contractors to accelerate the upgradation work of Gaddafi Stadium to ensure its timely completion.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the importance of meeting deadlines, especially with the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon.

It’s worth noting that the ICC on Thursday confirmed the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025, with India playing their matches at a neutral venue.

Earlier today, a report from ESPNcricinfo revealed that the hybrid model has received approval for the entire ICC event cycle spanning from 2024 to 2027.

The ICC has now officially confirmed the development through a press release.

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“ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 to be played across Pakistan and a neutral venue,” the apex cricket body announced.

“India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC Events during the 2024-2027 rights cycle will be played at a neutral venue, the ICC Board confirmed on Thursday, 19 December.”

“This will apply to the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 (hosted by Pakistan), set to be played in February and March 2025, as well as the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 (hosted by India) and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (hosted by India and Sri Lanka).”

The ICC also confirmed that Pakistan will host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, the first event of the next event cycle. Similar to the current cycle, India will not travel to Pakistan for the 2028 event.

READ: ‘Hybrid model’ approved for Champions Trophy 2025: reports

Mohsin Naqvi chairs 76th PCB BoG meeting in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi presided over the 76th meeting of the Board of Governors (BoG) at a local hotel here on Wednesday.

The BoG was briefed on the latest development regarding hosting the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be played in Pakistan.

The members lauded Chairman PCB’s firm stance regarding hosting the showpiece ICC event at home and showed their confidence in him.

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The members were also briefed on the stadium upgradation taking place in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi for the upcoming mega event. The members of the BoG expressed their satisfaction with the upgradation work.

Also, the members expressed their delight in the ongoing inaugural edition of the Bahria Town Champions T20 Cup taking place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Earlier this year, the PCB hosted a successful Bahria Town Champions One-Day Cup in Faisalabad.

READ: PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi invites Saudi cricket chief to Pakistan for Champions Trophy

PCB chairman invites Saudi cricket chief to Pakistan for Champions Trophy

Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has invited Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud, the chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF), to visit Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The two cricket officials met in Riyadh to discuss avenues for collaboration, player development, and the growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia.

During the meeting, Naqvi assured full support for cricket promotion in Saudi Arabia, including assistance with stadium construction and player training programs.

He emphasized the importance of fostering cricket ties between the two nations and suggested initiating a player exchange program to help develop emerging talent.

“Saudi Arabia is like a second home to every Pakistani, and we are delighted to offer our support for the growth of cricket here,” Mohsin Naqvi stated.

“We will provide full support for cricket development and the construction of stadiums,” he added.

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“Saudi Arabia can send its emerging players to Pakistan. A player exchange program can also be initiated for cricket development,” Naqvi concluded.

Prince Saud bin Mishal expressed his gratitude to Mohsin Naqvi for the invitation to the Champions Trophy.

He welcomed the collaboration, revealing that Saudi Arabia currently has around 18,000 active cricket players and has achieved significant milestones, including winning the ACC Challenge Cup.

“We are eager to work closely with Pakistan to develop cricket in Saudi Arabia, and this partnership can open new horizons for our players,” he said.

On the other hand, the deadlock surrounding the Champions Trophy 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.’

While there are indications that the BCCI is inclined to accept this ‘fusion formula,’ the situation remains fluid, and there has yet to be any official communication or update on the matter.

READ: Mitchell Santner named New Zealand’s full-time white-ball captain

PM Shehbaz Sharif lauds PCB chairman’s stance on Champions Trophy

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.

READ: New Zealand batter set to miss third Test against England

PCB Chairman congratulates Pakistan Blind team on T20 World Cup victory

The Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi has extended his heartiest congratulations to the Pakistan Blind cricket team for winning the T20 World Cup 2024 on Tuesday.

Pakistan registered a commanding ten-wicket victory over Bangladesh to clinch their first-ever WBCC Blind Cricket T20 World Cup in Multan.

Mohsin Naqvi expressed profound pride in the remarkable achievement of the Blind Cricket Team, acknowledging the immense dedication and unwavering perseverance that paved the way for their historic victory.

“The players of the Blind Cricket Team delivered an outstanding performance, earning the prestigious title of T20 World Champions,” said Naqvi.

He also conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the management team, whose essential contributions and strategic guidance played a pivotal role in the team’s success.

Naqvi expressed his hopes that the squad would maintain this winning spirit in future tournaments.

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“I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the management of the Pakistan Blind cricket team. The players displayed remarkable dedication and exemplary teamwork in every match” he added.

In a thrilling finale, Bangladesh managed to post a modest total of 139 runs after losing seven wickets. Arif Hussain stood out as the star performer for Bangladesh, delivering a commendable innings with a solid score of 54 runs.

On the bowling front for Pakistan, Babar Ali showcased his skills, claiming three crucial wickets, while his teammates Motiullah and Mohammad Salman each added to the tally with one wicket apiece.

In response, the Pakistan blind cricket team successfully chased down the target in just 11 overs without losing a single wicket.

The formidable opening pair of Nisar Ali and Mohammad Safdar forged an unbeaten partnership that saw Ali score an impressive 72 runs and Safdar contributing 47 runs, leading the host nation to a resounding 10-wicket victory.

READ: Shoaib Akhtar reveals what Babar Azam must do to stay in team

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