Pakistan Hosts ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Ending 30-Year Wait

Pakistan is set to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking its first major international cricket event in nearly 30 years since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup. The tournament comes after a long recovery period post the 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan team, which deterred international teams from touring Pakistan for nearly a decade. Despite the enthusiasm, geopolitical tensions mean that India will play its matches in the UAE rather than in Pakistan, as it has not visited since 2008. The tournament will feature 10 matches hosted by Pakistan, culminating in a final in Lahore on March 9, provided India does not qualify. The opening match pits Pakistan against New Zealand, with the hosts hoping to leverage their home advantage despite recent losses to the Kiwis. This event is seen as a significant revival for cricket in Pakistan and an opportunity to showcase the nation's passion for the sport.