By Zainab Shafiq 
This week represents a historic juncture for Pakistan as it gets ready to host the Champions Trophy, its first ICC event in almost three decades. The event, which is set to get underway on Wednesday, is being touted as a watershed moment for the country, which has spent years laboriously rebuilding its reputation following years of security issues which kept foreign sides away.
The tournament, which is being held in three cities over two-and-a-half weeks, is a reflection of Pakistan’s revival on the international scene. For cricket fans like 77-year-old Haji Abdul Razzak, the return of international cricket is a rebirth. “It’s like celebrating another birthday,” said Razzak, who has fond memories of the 1996 World Cup co-hosted by Pakistan. “Terrorism took so much from us, but today, I feel immense pride seeing my country back in the limelight.”
Champions Trophy on the horizon: Big success for PCB and the nation as Pakistan hosts first ICC event in 29 years
The journey has not been smooth. Pakistan was initially the host of the Champions Trophy in 2008, but security concerns made it necessary for the tournament to shift to South Africa. The attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore in 2009 further pushed Pakistan into the fringes of the international cricket world. Still, a relentless security crackdown since 2014 has dramatically enhanced security, which saw the revival of Test cricket in 2019 and has witnessed follow-on visits by major sides such as Australia and England.
Though there has been progress, there are still challenges. Long-time arch-rivals India have declined to play in Pakistan because of political tensions and instead played in Dubai. However, the inclusion of seven other countries highlights increasing confidence in Pakistan’s capacity to host international events.
Ex-PCB chairman Ramiz Raja, who played a crucial role in winning the tournament, spoke of its greater importance. “This isn’t about cricket,” he declared. “It’s about national pride, determination, and highlighting Pakistan’s potential for the world.
The Champions Trophy follows on the heels of Pakistan staging high-profile events such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit and an international education conference, further raising its international standing. With recently refurbished stadiums and passionate crowds, the country is set to put its best foot forward.
With the opening match against New Zealand on the horizon, the air is filled with expectation. For Pakistan, this tournament is not just a sporting contest—it’s an opportunity to rewrite its story and reassert its position on the world stage.
Also, see:
WPL 2025 Complete Schedule and Squads