Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Hybrid Model & Pakistan’s Preparations

India’s Participation and Rohit Sharma’s Absence

The Champions Trophy 2025 will be played in a hybrid model. India’s matches will be played in Dubai, while the rest of the tournament will take place in Pakistan.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma will not travel to Pakistan for the opening ceremony and official photo shoot. This decision follows the BCCI and Indian government’s concerns regarding travel to Pakistan.

India will play its matches in Dubai.
Rohit Sharma will not attend the opening ceremony in Pakistan.
The hybrid model was agreed upon due to security concerns.

Pakistan Extends Invitations for the Event

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has invited the ICC Chairman Jay Shah and heads of all major cricket boards.

Some officials have confirmed their attendance at different stages of the tournament, including semi-finals and finals. However, confirmation from Jay Shah is still pending.

Naqvi stated, “We have sent invitations to the ICC Chairman and other board members. Some have confirmed they will attend. Once Jay Shah confirms, we will update.”

Key Invitations Sent To:

ICC Chairman Jay Shah
BCCI officials
Cricket board chiefs of all participating teams

Renovation of Pakistan’s Stadiums

With the Champions Trophy set to take place in Pakistan, significant renovations are underway at three major stadiums:

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
National Stadium, Karachi

Pakistan began renovation in September 2024, and Lahore Stadium is set to be the first to be inaugurated on February 7, 2025, by PM Shehbaz Sharif.

Karachi Stadium will be inaugurated by Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari.
Rawalpindi Stadium will follow next.

The renovations are crucial as PCB aims to host a successful Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Despite some doubts about the completion timeline, officials are confident that the work will be finished on time.

Challenges in Completing Stadium Renovation

A recent report by The Dawn expressed concerns over whether the stadiums would be ready before the tournament.

The renovation process started in September 2024.
Many believe the task is impossible to complete within the deadline.
Officials, however, remain optimistic and assure work will be completed in time.

Quote: “It seems absolutely impossible to contemplate the renovation work being completed within the deadline, but the personnel handed the responsibility are beaming with confidence.” – The Dawn

Pakistan’s Tri-Series Before Champions Trophy

Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan will participate in a tri-series with New Zealand and South Africa from February 8 to 14, 2025.

First two matches will be played in Lahore.
Third match and final will be played in Karachi.

This series will serve as a key preparation phase for Pakistan before they compete in the Champions Trophy.

What This Means for Cricket Fans

Pakistan will host a major ICC event after years.
India’s matches in Dubai could impact tournament dynamics.
Renovated stadiums will showcase Pakistan’s infrastructure improvements.
Global cricket officials attending will strengthen Pakistan’s cricket relations.

The Champions Trophy 2025 will be a historic tournament with its hybrid model and revamped stadiums. While India will play in Dubai, Pakistan is preparing to welcome top cricketing nations. With ongoing renovations and high-profile invitations, this event is set to be a defining moment for Pakistan’s cricketing landscape.

Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams

Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan’s Preparations and India’s Stand

India’s Participation and Rohit Sharma’s Absence