The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday responded strongly to recent media reports that suggested the possibility of changing dates for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, slated for early next year in Pakistan.
According to the board, preparations at the venue are going well and it is one of its key focuses.
Recent media interaction has led to misunderstanding of remarks made by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, according to PCB.
In order to allow completion of ongoing stadium renovations, Naqvi admitted that some domestic matches might be moved; however, he clearly stated that this would not affect the schedule of Champions Trophy.
This comes after shifting the second Test match against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi as announced by PCB lately.
Reports show that the move was necessitated by ongoing developments taking place at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium which is among venues earmarked for ICC tournament in 2025.
“Yesterday’s media interaction saw some media outlets wrongfully quote PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi about a potential shift in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 dates due to security issues thereby causing undue drama,” read part of a statement issued yesterday.
On the other hand, PCB stated that stadium redevelopment and redesign projects are continuing as planned and will finish long before they host the Champions Trophy.
Three iconic Pakistani venues will once again provide an amazing experience for cricket fans during this world-class event as reiterated by Board officials.
The draft tournament schedule covering February 19 – March 9, 2025 has already been submitted to International Cricket Council (ICC), confirmed PCB about possible scheduling conflicts.
Nevertheless, there have been no more changes declared by PCB so far despite speculations surrounding Bangladesh Test Match switching and implications on England Test series scheduled for October too.
The board remains focused on its objective of successfully conducting Champions Trophy while stating its resolve to organize a successful tournament that demonstrates Pakistan’s love for cricket at global level.
