ISLAMABAD: An International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation is set to visit Pakistan next week to assess preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for February and March 2025. Pakistan, the defending champions, will host the 50-over tournament across three cities: Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi.
The delegation, comprising heads and representatives from various ICC departments, will review key aspects such as scheduling, practice matches, venues, and ticketing. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials are expected to brief the ICC team on the upgrades being made to the three venues set to host the tournament.
Earlier this year, the PCB allocated Rs 12.80 billion to enhance Gaddafi Stadium (Lahore), National Stadium (Karachi), and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, ensuring they meet international standards for the global event.
The inspection team will tour all three venues to evaluate the progress. The ICC is expected to finalize the tournament schedule in the coming days.
Group A of the Champions Trophy includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B consists of Australia, England, Afghanistan, and South Africa. The tournament will run from February 19 to March 9, 2025.