LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has called for the immediate establishment of key committees in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
This directive came during a meeting at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore on Saturday, where Naqvi reviewed essential preparations for the international event. Discussions focused on the Champions Trophy and provided updates on the ongoing Champions One Day Cup in Faisalabad, along with the progress of the stadium upgrade project.
Naqvi stressed the urgency of forming the necessary committees, assigning clear responsibilities to ensure prompt operations. “With some of the world’s top teams set to compete, our arrangements must be flawless,” he stated.
He also underscored the importance of expediting work on the stadium renovations to enhance the fan experience. “Once the upgrades are complete, spectators will enjoy the matches even more,” Naqvi added.
Praising the enthusiasm of Faisalabad’s fans during the Champions Cup matches, he hinted at the potential for Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches to be held in the city.
The meeting included PCB officials such as Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer, Chief Financial Officer Javed Murtaza, and various PCB directors.
Naqvi is expected to meet with ICC Chairman Jay Shah in October during the final match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Dubai.
The PCB is currently awaiting final approval of the Champions Trophy schedule to confirm logistical arrangements. Following discussions with ICC officials, they have requested prompt finalization of the schedule to ensure smooth preparations.
According to media reports, provisional bookings have been made based on the proposed schedule, with the ICC expected to announce it officially by the end of October. Naqvi’s upcoming meeting with Shah will likely focus on India’s participation in the tournament.
Earlier, an ICC delegation visited and assessed arrangements at venues including Karachi, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and Lahore, expressing satisfaction with the security protocols for next year’s event. The delegation comprised senior ICC officials, including Sarah Edgar, Aun Muhammad Zaidi, and Wasim Khan.
