Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sources have told Express News that Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has met with UAE Cricket Board Chief Sheikh Al Nahyan last night.
During the meeting, Dubai Stadium was finalised as the neutral venue for the ICC Champions Trophy under the hybrid model.
Sources revealed that the discussion also included easing visa processes for Pakistani fans and emphasised ICC and PCB collaboration on other logistical issues.
Sheikh Al Nahyan assured full cooperation on all matters during his meeting with the PCB chairman. Previously, the PCB had explored options for neutral venues in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Colombo Stadium but logistical challenges led to the UAE being finalised.
Notably, Sheikh Al Nahyan is currently in the Ghotki district of Sindh.
Earlier Mohsin Naqvi announced that a decision on a neutral venue for the Champions Trophy is expected today (Sunday), while also hinting at promising news for Karachi related to the tournament.
Speaking to the media after inspecting ongoing renovation work at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, Naqvi addressed the three-year agreement for Pakistan’s cricket team to play against India at neutral venues.
He stated that while the arrangement stands for now, the future of such decisions will depend on the next PCB administration.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 proposed schedule unveiled
The proposed schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been unveiled, with Pakistan set to host the international event.
The tournament is scheduled to commence on February 19, with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand taking place at the National Stadium in Karachi.
The highly anticipated Pakistan-India encounter is slated for 23 February at a neutral venue. This clash is expected to attract significant global attention, reflecting the historic rivalry between the two teams.
Key highlights of the probable schedule:
Opening match: Pakistan vs New Zealand, February 19, Karachi
Pakistan vs India: February 23, neutral venue
Pakistan vs Bangladesh: February 27, Rawalpindi
Australia vs England: February 22, Lahore
Afghanistan vs England: February 26, Lahore
Afghanistan vs Australia: February 28, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
