PCB urges ICC to finalise schedule for Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) wants the ICC to finalise the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule so that they can make the best logistical arrangements for the competing teams. Pakistan are preparing to host an ICC event after a very long time and the excitement among the fans is palpable.

In recent discussions with ICC officials, the PCB has emphasised timely schedule finalisation to ensure seamless logistical planning. As per a report in Tribune, provisional bookings have been made on the basis of the proposed schedule. The board plans to confirm these arrangements once the official schedule is announced.

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The ICC is expected to make a definitive announcement with regards to the Champions Trophy schedule by the end of next month. Reports have also suggested that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and BCCI Secretary, newly appointed ICC Chairman Jay Shah, could meet in October during the upcoming 2024 Women's T20 World Cup final to discuss further details.

According to the proposed schedule of the 2025 Champions Trophy, Pakistan is placed in Group A along with Bangladesh, New Zealand, and arch-rivals India. Meanwhile, Group B consists of England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan. The BCCI is awaiting Indian government consultations before confirming their participation for the tournament. The Men in Blue have not played in Pakistan since 2008.

The marquee event is set to begin on February 19 and culminate on March 9 unless the reserve day (March 10) is required. Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi are the three venues which will be hosting the matches.

England squad set to arrive on October 2 for Tests

England are set to play three Tests against Pakistan next month. The first two matches will be played in Multan, while the final Test is scheduled to be held in Rawalpindi. The Three Lions will be arriving in Multan on October 2, five days before the start of the first Test.

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The last time England's Test team visited Pakistan was in December 2022. Ben Stokes and Co. whitewashed the hosts 3-0 in the three-match series. Pakistan are licking their wounds after facing a first-ever Test series defeat against Bangladesh earlier this month. With their backs against the wall, Shan Masood's men will have to come out all guns blazing as they seek redemption.