A five-member delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to arrive in Karachi on Tuesday to evaluate security and other preparations for next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The delegation includes key officials from the ICC’s Events and Security Departments, along with the General Manager for Cricket and the Production Manager.
ICC Pitch Consultant Andy Atkinson has already visited Pakistan three times since April to review the pitches. The current delegation will assess the tentative tournament schedule submitted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), including potential logistical scenarios, such as basing the Indian team in Lahore. The possibility of a hybrid model, where some matches may be held at neutral venues if India opts out of travelling to Pakistan, will also be discussed.
In addition to reviewing the schedule, the delegation will inspect construction work at stadiums and evaluate hotel accommodations in Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. They will also receive briefings from local security officials.
The Champions Trophy is slated to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with a budget of $65 million approved by the ICC. The final tournament schedule is yet to be confirmed and will be announced later based on various factors, including India’s participation.
(With PTI inputs)