Contrary to earlier reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to hold the opening ceremony of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy 2025 in Lahore.

 

According to reports, the ceremony will take place on February 16 at the provincial capital’s historic Hazoori Bagh. The PCB has already prepared the schedule and Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has approved all plans in this regard.

 

Meanwhile, the renovation work at Gaddafi Stadium is also almost complete. The stadium's opening ceremony is expected on February 7 with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as chief guest, reports said, adding that Naqvi has officially invited him to the event that may also include a laser show.

 

A new building has been constructed at National Stadium Karachi as well, and its opening ceremony is scheduled for February 11. President Asif Ali Zardari is expected to attend the event as chief guest.

 

According to reports, England will arrive in Lahore on February 18 due to a break after their white-ball series in India, which ends on February 12. Australia will reach Lahore on February 19 after a Test and ODI series in Sri Lanka, ending on February 14, followed by four days of rest.

 

Earlier, reports claimed that the opening ceremony of the Champions Trophy might not happen due to the late arrival of some teams. It was also claimed that the pre-tournament press conference and photo shoot with eight team captains in Karachi had been cancelled.

 

Despite these concerns, the PCB has finalised the opening ceremony, ensuring a grand start to the mega cricketing event.