Pakistan was able to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 successfully, for which ICC Safety and Security Manager Dave Musker gave them a lot of credit. The event ended with India qualifying for the final against New Zealand, which was hosted in Dubai under the hybrid format. The second semi-final, featuring New Zealand vs South Africa, in Lahore was the final game to be hosted in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s First ICC Event Since 1996 World Cup

Pakistan staged most of the Champions Trophy matches, its first ICC event since the 1996 World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) invested billions of rupees to upgrade Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi stadiums to offer world-class facilities to players and viewers alike.

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ICC Praises Pakistan’s Security Plans

Dave Musker of ICC congratulated Pakistan’s security men on their impressive plans for the tournament. He thanked the police, Rangers, and army in a video message posted before the semi-final in Lahore.

“Just wanted to do a small video to thank all the Pakistani police, the rangers and the army. They have been absolutely superb. There were obviously concerns from visiting teams coming over to Pakistan, I personally had no doubts. The professionalism of the people I have been involved with has been exceptional. The co-operation and the respect I have been shown is amazing,” said Musker.

Positive Image for Pakistan on Global Stage

Musker stressed that the Champions Trophy 2025 was able to project a good image of Pakistan, its people, and law enforcement agencies. “It’s been a brilliant tournament thus far,” he further added.

The Pakistan cricket team had a dismal tournament despite the hosting success, not winning a single group-stage game and not qualifying for the semi-finals.

India’s Matches Under Hybrid Model

While Pakistan hosted 10 matches, India hosted all their matches in Dubai under the hybrid model. The India-New Zealand final was also played in the UAE.

The hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025 by Pakistan successfully gives more strength to Pakistan’s ability to host international cricket tournaments with world-class security and infrastructure.