Pakistan, which was traditionally regarded as off-limits due to security concerns, is about to hold its first ICC tournament in almost 30 years, which is a big milestone. The Champions Trophy 2025 is a significant chance for Pakistan to demonstrate its organizational skills and security measures.

The Tournament will begin On February 19 and will take place in three locations over the course of the next two and a half weeks. The tournament is being co-hosted by UAE as well, as India refused to tour Pakistan and will play its matches in Dubai, including the semi-final and final if they qualify.

Even though there have been less security incidents in major urban areas in recent years, security measures have been greatly strengthened in the host cities of Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.

The argument for Pakistan to host the event has been bolstered by recent tours by South Africa, Australia, England, and New Zealand.

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja, who was the PCB chief when the tournament was awarded to the nation in 2021, said that it was an opportunity to show the world that Pakistan was a safe country for cricket.

"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. The world eventually understood our viewpoint,” Raja told AFP.

Raja emphasized the broader significance of the event, saying, "This Champions Trophy is a crucial step toward normalizing 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."

The Champions Trophy 2025 features India, Pakistan, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi will host matches in Pakistan, while Dubai is the venue for India’s matches.