Pakistan Welcomes the Champions Trophy After 29 Years – A Historic Cricket Moment
Cricket is not just a sport in Pakistan—it’s a national passion, a symbol of pride, and a unifying force. After 29 long years, the ICC Champions Trophy is returning to Pakistan, making it one of the most anticipated events in the country’s sporting history. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has left no stone unturned to make this event a grand success, ensuring top-tier security, world-class stadiums, and a welcoming atmosphere for international teams.
A Symbol of National Pride
The return of an ICC event to Pakistan is more than just cricket; it is a statement to the world that Pakistan is ready to host global sports again. In a rare display of unity, former PCB chiefs have come together to celebrate this monumental occasion. With a wall of fame unveiled and cricket legends honored, the country is in full celebration mode. However, it is surprising that two of the most influential cricket figures, Imran Khan and Shaiza Khan, have been overlooked in these festivities.
Pakistan’s Path to Glory
Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s squad is gearing up for the ultimate challenge. The captain and coach have remarkably held their positions for over three months—a feat in Pakistan cricket’s ever-changing leadership cycle. The expectations are high, and for a cricket-loving nation, nothing short of a title will be enough.
Pakistan’s squad selection has raised eyebrows, featuring just one frontline spinner, a reshuffled batting order, and two surprise inclusions. However, the biggest change has been their aggressive batting approach. While this strategy didn’t win them the tri-series, it helped them achieve a record chase, signaling an exciting shift in Pakistan’s playing style.
First Challenge: New Zealand
Pakistan’s opening game against New Zealand is set to be a thrilling encounter. The Black Caps have beaten Pakistan in their last two meetings and have played seven ODIs at this venue since 2023, making them well-versed with the conditions. However, injuries have plagued their squad, with Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears ruled out. Rachin Ravindra, who suffered a head injury, has resumed practice but remains uncertain for the match.
Match Details
📅 When: Wednesday, February 19, 2025 | 14:00 Local Time (14:30 IST)
📍 Where: National Stadium, Karachi
What to Expect
Karachi’s National Stadium is known for high-scoring matches, with an average first-innings total of 289. The toss hasn’t provided a distinct advantage, as teams batting and bowling first have won equally in the last eight matches.
Team News & Probable XIs
Pakistan
✅ Haris Rauf, who sustained a muscular strain, has been declared fit for the opener.
🟢 Probable XI: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam/Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf.
New Zealand
✅ Kyle Jamieson has replaced the injured Lockie Ferguson. Rachin Ravindra’s participation remains uncertain.
🟡 Probable XI: Will Young/Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Nathan Smith/Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke.
Key Stats & Facts
📌 Karachi’s National Stadium has hosted eight ODIs since 2023, with seven featuring Pakistan and New Zealand.
📌 Devon Conway has struggled against Naseem Shah, getting dismissed by him in all three previous encounters.
📌 Tom Latham, despite a rough 2025, has scored three half-centuries in seven innings at this venue.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is not just a tournament—it’s Pakistan’s moment to shine. As the action unfolds, the world will witness whether Pakistan can turn this long-awaited homecoming into a championship-winning campaign. The stage is set, the stakes are high, and a cricket-crazy nation is ready to roar!
📢 Stay tuned for more updates, exclusive insights, and match analysis from the Champions Trophy!