Pakistan is set to host its first major cricket tournament in nearly 30 years, marking a significant milestone for a nation that was previously considered off-limits due to security concerns. The Champions Trophy, scheduled across three cities over the next two-and-a-half weeks, represents a crucial opportunity for the South Asian nation to showcase its organisational capabilities and security arrangements.
“Convincing the world that Pakistan is a safe country and that it is capable of delivering such a global event from an administration point of view took serious hard work and convincing,” former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja told AFP.
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“The world eventually understood our viewpoint,” Raja stated, referring to the event’s allocation during his leadership in 2021.
Despite the milestone, preparations have faced challenges, particularly India’s decision not to participate in Pakistan due to ongoing political tensions. While India will compete in Dubai, the remaining seven nations will be based in Pakistan.
Security measures have been significantly bolstered in the host cities of Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, even as major urban areas have reported fewer security incidents in recent years.
Recent tours by Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa have strengthened Pakistan’s case to host the tournament.
Raja emphasised the broader significance of the event, saying, “This Champions Trophy is a crucial step toward normalising Pakistan’s standing in the global cricket community. It’s about national pride and sending a strong message about resilience and determination. It is about youth engagement, cultural promotion, and building a global image. Now the onus is on us to deliver.”