The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was officially launched on Sunday evening with a spectacular opening ceremony at the historic Diwan-e-Aam of Lahore Fort.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Pakistan’s rich cultural history, the event showcased a unique blend of cricketing excellence and vibrant traditions, marking the beginning of one of the most anticipated tournaments in cricket history.
Cricket legends, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials, and passionate fans gathered to mark the occasion. The ceremony featured a special panel discussion with iconic cricketers, who shared unforgettable moments from past tournaments. Their stories captivated the audience and set the stage for an exciting competition ahead.
The ceremony also honoured the Pakistan squad that triumphed in the 2017 Champions Trophy, defeating arch-rivals India by 180 runs in the final to secure the prestigious title.
The event’s cultural highlights included a stunning performance by music legend Atif Aslam, who sang the official anthem for the Champions Trophy. In addition, the Pakistan Air Force left the crowd in awe with an impressive fly-past, making the evening truly unforgettable.
The launch event underscored Pakistan’s deep sporting and cultural legacy, kicking off the global celebration of cricket. The tournament will take place across several venues, including Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Dubai, bringing together the world’s best teams.
The tournament officially begins on February 19, with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand at Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium. Fans eagerly await the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash on February 23 in Dubai.
Ahead of the tournament, the Indian team has arrived in Dubai, and Bangladesh has started preparations for their first match. On February 17, Bangladesh will face Pakistan’s Shaheens in a practice match, while Afghanistan will meet New Zealand in another practice game in Karachi.
