President Asif Ali Zardari, accompanied by First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, graced the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Karachi, marking the prestigious tournament’s long-awaited return to Pakistan. The event kicked off with Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium, where Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first.
The Champions Trophy, being held in Pakistan for the first time since its inception, is a landmark event for the country, which last hosted an ICC tournament in 1996. The 2025 edition features eight teams competing across four venues – three in Pakistan and one in Dubai – between February 19 and March 9. Extensive renovations at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium have transformed them into world-class venues for this prestigious tournament.
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This year’s tournament divides the teams into two groups. Group A includes hosts Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B features Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. Following the opener against New Zealand, Pakistan will face arch-rivals India in Dubai on February 23 and play against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.
On the security front, over 12,000 police officers have been deployed in Lahore and Rawalpindi to ensure the safety of players and spectators. In Lahore, 8,000 officers, including 39 DSPs and 700 upper subordinates, are on duty. In Rawalpindi, over 5,000 officers, including six senior officers and 500 upper subordinates, are tasked with maintaining security.
As the defending champions, Pakistan will look to capitalize on their home advantage in this high-stakes tournament. The final, if India does not qualify, will be held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore; otherwise, it will take place in Dubai.
