The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly denied recent media reports that suggested the dates for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, to be held in Pakistan, might be rescheduled due to security concerns. The PCB clarified in a statement that these reports have misrepresented comments made by PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi during a recent media interaction, leading to unnecessary speculation.
“It is disappointing that certain media outlets have misrepresented PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi’s comments from yesterday’s media interaction, misleadingly quoting him on the potential change of dates for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to security concerns, thus creating unnecessary sensationalism,” read the statement on the PCB’s official website.
This clarification comes shortly after the PCB confirmed that Pakistan’s second Test against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on August 30, has been relocated from Karachi to Rawalpindi. The move was necessary due to ongoing redevelopment work at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, which is being prepared for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The PCB, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Cricket Board, made the decision to shift the second ICC World Test Championship fixture to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Despite the change in venue for this Test match, the PCB assured fans that preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy are on track.
“During the media talk, which is available on the PCB’s official YouTube channel, the PCB Chair clearly stated that the redevelopment and redesign of the three designated stadia would be completed on schedule, ensuring readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025,” the statement further clarified.
The PCB emphasized that while some domestic matches might need to be relocated to allow uninterrupted construction work, this does not affect the ICC Champions Trophy, which remains a top priority. The Board reiterated its commitment to delivering a world-class event at three iconic venues in Pakistan, ensuring a memorable experience for cricket fans.
The PCB has already submitted a draft schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to the International Cricket Council (ICC), proposing dates from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Pakistan will first focus on the two-Test series against Bangladesh before turning its attention to the three-Test series against England in October, where Karachi is slated to host the second Test. However, given the recent relocation of the Bangladesh Test, there is speculation that the England match could also be moved, though the PCB has not yet confirmed this.
The PCB remains fully committed to hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as planned, ensuring all preparations are completed on time to provide an exceptional experience for players and fans alike.
