'It is a great occasion as Pakistan welcomes the first ICC event to its shores in 28 years' - Mohammad Rizwan praises Champions Trophy scheduling

Pakistan's white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi praised the Champions Trophy schedule, describing the ICC's move to organise the 50-over competition in a hybrid model as a "significant milestone" for the cricket-loving country.

This is going to be the first ICC event that Pakistan will host since the 1996 World Cup. Eight teams are going to compete for the coveted title. 15 matches will be played at the event, which will be played in Pakistan and the UAE.

The three venue in Pakistan which will host Champions Trophy matches are Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Each venue in Pakistan will host three group games, with Lahore also hosting the second semi-final. Meanwhile, Dubai has been chosen as the solitary venue in the UAE to host matches in the marquee event. The final is scheduled to be held in Lahore on March 9. However, if India manage to qualify, the summit clash will be played in Dubai.

"As a cricket-loving country, we are all very excited to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. It is a great occasion as Pakistan welcomes the first ICC event to its shores in 28 years, especially as we are the defending champions," Rizwan said in a PCB media release.

Also Check: Champions Trophy 2025 to start on February 19, India vs Pakistan on February 23

Pleased that an agreement has been reached: PCB chairman

There was a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the Champions Trophy for the last few months. India refused to travel to Pakistan to compete at the event, citing security concerns. Meanwhile, Naqvi tried his best to bring the Men in Blue to the country. The ICC suggested a hybrid model and PCB eventually accepted it. However, they ensured that Pakistan would not have to travel to India to play in the upcoming ICC events until 2027. Naqvi lauded the contributions of the ICC members who helped in easing the tension.

"We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport," Naqvi stated in the release.

"Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, highlighting our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and showcasing our capabilities as a premier event organiser. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution," he added.