The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy marks the return of a major international cricket tournament to the country after a painfully long hiatus.
The last time Pakistan hosted a multinational ICC event was the 1996 Cricket World Cup. Since then, a series of unfortunate incidents have deprived local fans of seeing top-tier cricket on their home soil.
Among the darkest days in Pakistan’s cricket history is March 3, 2009, when terrorists attacked the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore. The horrifying event saw Pakistan sidelined as an international venue, with teams refusing to tour due to understandable security concerns. Consequently, Pakistan played its ‘home’ matches in the U.A.E. for several years, underscoring the country’s isolation in global cricket.
Despite assurances and improved security conditions, it took over a decade for international cricket to trickle back into Pakistan. Multiple domestic Twenty20 tournaments with the participation of foreign players, as well as the recent hosting of teams like Sri Lanka, England, Australia, and New Zealand, have demonstrated Pakistan’s capability to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of international matches.
The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 will serve as the ultimate litmus test, proving that Pakistan is once again ready to host world-class tournaments.
Unfortunately, the triumphant moment was tarnished by India once more attempting to play spoiler. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing political reasons rather than genuine security concerns. The compromise decision was to permit matches featuring India to be played in Dubai, robbing Pakistan of a complete hosting experience.
India’s decision not only undermines the spirit of cricket but also highlights its persistent reluctance to separate sports from politics.
Despite these challenges, the Champions Trophy remains a golden opportunity for Pakistan. A successful tournament will open doors for future ICC events and bilateral series, allowing Pakistan’s cricket-crazy fans to fully enjoy the game at home without compromise.
The beginning of a new era, this tournament allows Pakistan to no longer be viewed through the lens of past tragedies, but as a proud cricketing nation, ready to reclaim its place on the global stage.