Cricket legends, board officials, and passionate fans gathered at Lahore Fort on Sunday night for an extraordinary curtain raiser event that showcased the grandeur of both the sport and Pakistani culture. The event marked the official opening of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with a colorful display at the historic Diwan-e-Aam, celebrating Pakistan’s rich heritage and cricketing legacy.
The Champions Trophy begins on February 19, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi. The next 19 days will witness thrilling matches between the world’s top eight teams, as they compete for the prestigious title. The opening ceremony paid tribute to Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy victory, with a live performance by Atif Aslam of the tournament’s official anthem. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) added to the spectacle with a captivating fly-past.
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Attendees included key figures such as ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, and Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmed Khan, among others. Naqvi hailed the event as a “historic opportunity” for Pakistan, while Allardice highlighted the passionate cricket culture that Pakistan will showcase during the tournament. The event also featured a lively panel discussion with legendary cricketers reminiscing about unforgettable moments from past tournaments.
As the tournament gears up for the first match, excitement is building both at home and abroad. In Dubai, a large number of Pakistani and Indian fans are planning gatherings to watch the Pakistan-India clash on February 23, a highly anticipated match. Local fans in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi are equally enthusiastic, with many planning large screenings and celebrations.
With tickets in high demand and matches set across several cities, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises unforgettable moments as the world’s best teams battle for the top prize.
