Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the final squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been finalized and will be officially announced today.
Speaking at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi expressed confidence in the selection committee, assuring that the best possible team has been chosen for the prestigious tournament. He was accompanied by COO Sumair Syed, Aqib Javed and Aleem Dar.
Naqvi also provided updates on Pakistan’s preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted in the country. He confirmed that Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be inaugurated on February 7, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as the chief guest. Similarly, Karachi stadium will be inaugurated on February 11 by President Asif Ali Zardari.
A special Champions Trophy ceremony, organised in collaboration with the International Cricket Council (ICC), will take place on February 16. He said invitations have been extended to all cricket boards, including India, as well as the ICC chairman and other dignitaries. "A lot of guests are expected to attend the event."
"There are many people across the border who object even to a stone falling," Naqvi remarked, adding that chairs had arrived from China with a 20-year guarantee. "It will take time to cover all the expenses incurred on the stadiums."
Naqvi also stated that the cricket board was independent and did not take any money or grant from the government. He added that they had to coordinate with the ICC on the captains' press conference.
Saim Ayub’s recovery
Providing an update on young cricketer Saim Ayub’s health, Naqvi stated that his recovery is progressing well. "The plaster has been removed, and he will take at least three to four weeks to regain full fitness," he said, expressing hope for Ayub’s early return to the squad.
Renovation of stadiums
Naqvi highlighted PCB’s major infrastructure projects, revealing that three stadiums and a head office building have been constructed with an investment of Rs13 billion.
- Gaddafi Stadium’s renovation began in September and will be completed before February 7.
- Lahore stadium’s spectator capacity has been increased to accommodate more fans. Its name is not being changed for now.
- A brand-new stadium will be built in Rawalpindi-Islamabad in the next eight to 10 months, as structural issues persist in the Pindi Stadium.
Naqvi also noted that 2,000 to 2,500 labourers will be served lunch at Gaddafi Stadium’s inauguration ceremony on February 7.
Champions Trophy hosting
The PCB chairman reiterated that Pakistan is fully prepared to host the Champions Trophy and will welcome all participating teams with great hospitality. He dismissed rumours of a team photo shoot in Dubai, emphasizing that preparations are in full swing and that there is unity and momentum within the national squad.
Regarding the presence of ICC Chair Jay Shah, Naqvi said, "There is no confirmation yet, but all cricket boards, including India, have been invited."
Naqvi concluded by saying that he has full confidence in the national team and the selection committee, adding that Pakistan aims to win the Champions Trophy. He also acknowledged challenges in balancing PCB’s financial expenses but assured that the organization remains independent and does not take any grants from the government.
