KARACHI: Pakistan have won the toss and opted to bowl first against their competitor New Zealand in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy 2025, as the mega tournament has kicked off at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi.
President Asif Ali Zardari and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari are also attending the opening match as the chief guests.
The event also featured an aerial display by the Pakistan Air Force’s Sherdils team.
The eight-team tournament will be played across three venues in Pakistan – Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi – as well as in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 19 February to 9 March.
The cricket fever is high among fans as Pakistan is hosting an ICC event after a 29-year hiatus.
Pakistan last hosted an ICC event in 1996 — ICC Cricket World Cup 1996, which concluded with the final at the Gaddafi Stadium, where Sri Lanka defeated Australia by seven wickets.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed the tournament’s commencement as a victory for a peaceful and secure Pakistan. He stated that the entire nation, including himself, takes pride in hosting the event.
He further remarked that the Champions Trophy is not just a tournament but also a celebration of culture and tradition.
Naqvi extended a heartfelt welcome to all participating teams, acknowledging the passion of the Pakistani people for cricket. He emphasised that the nation has once again proven its deep love for the sport.
Pakistan’s 15-player squad:
Mohammad Rizwan (captain and wicket-keeper), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan.
Security situation
Over 6,700 personnel from the Special Security Unit (SSU) and other law enforcement agencies have been deployed to ensure security during the ICC Champions Trophy in Karachi.
According to security officials, the SSU has assigned 1,045 commandos, including female officers, to manage security operations. Additionally, 1,745 personnel from the Security Division, 1,390 from the Traffic Police, and 328 officers from the Special Branch have been stationed across key locations.
Security personnel have been deployed at Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium, the airport, designated routes, parking areas, hotels, and other critical points. Sharpshooters have also been positioned at sensitive locations for added security.
A specialised unit of highly trained commandos remains on high alert and will conduct routine patrols around the stadium.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Security emphasised the importance of maintaining a peaceful and secure atmosphere. He confirmed that security arrangements have been coordinated with all relevant agencies to ensure a smooth event.
Additionally, the authorities have issued strict entry guidelines for spectators attending Champions Trophy matches at Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium. Fans must carry their original national identity card along with a physical copy of their match ticket for entry.
This is a developing story and is being updated with more details.
