KARACHI: Pakistan have gained the toss and opted to bowl first towards their competitor New Zealand within the Worldwide Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy 2025, because the mega match has kicked off on the Nationwide Financial institution Cricket Stadium in Karachi.
President Asif Ali Zardari and First Woman Aseefa Bhutto Zardari are pictured throughout the pre-match ceremony at the Nationwide Financial institution Cricket Stadium in Karachi. — Geo Tremendous/Stay
President Asif Ali Zardari and First Woman Aseefa Bhutto Zardari are additionally attending the opening match because the chief visitors.Â
The occasion additionally featured an aerial show by the Pakistan Air Power’s Sherdils crew.
The eight-team match can be performed throughout three venues in Pakistan – Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi – in addition to in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 19 February to 9 March.
The cricket fever is excessive amongst followers as Pakistan is internet hosting an ICC occasion after a 29-year hiatus.
Pakistan final hosted an ICC occasion in 1996 — ICC Cricket World Cup 1996, which concluded with the ultimate on the Gaddafi Stadium, the place Sri Lanka defeated Australia by seven wickets.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed the match’s graduation as a victory for a peaceable and safe Pakistan. He said that the complete nation, together with himself, takes pleasure in internet hosting the occasion.Â
Pakistan squad. — PCB
He additional remarked that the Champions Trophy isn’t just a match but in addition a celebration of tradition and custom.
Naqvi prolonged a heartfelt welcome to all collaborating groups, acknowledging the fervour of the Pakistani folks for cricket. He emphasised that the nation has as soon as once more confirmed its deep love for the game.
Pakistan’s 15-player squad:
Mohammad Rizwan (captain and wicket-keeper), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan.
Safety scenario
Over 6,700 personnel from the Particular Safety Unit (SSU) and different legislation enforcement companies have been deployed to make sure safety throughout the ICC Champions Trophy in Karachi.
In response to safety officers, the SSU has assigned 1,045 commandos, together with feminine officers, to handle safety operations. Moreover, 1,745 personnel from the Safety Division, 1,390 from the Site visitors Police, and 328 officers from the Particular Department have been stationed throughout key places.
Safety personnel have been deployed at Karachi’s Nationwide Financial institution Cricket Stadium, the airport, designated routes, parking areas, motels, and different vital factors. Sharpshooters have additionally been positioned at delicate places for added safety.
A specialised unit of extremely skilled commandos stays on excessive alert and can conduct routine patrols across the stadium.
Deputy Inspector Common (DIG) Safety emphasised the significance of sustaining a peaceable and safe environment. He confirmed that safety preparations have been coordinated with all related companies to make sure a clean occasion.
Moreover, the authorities have issued strict entry tips for spectators attending Champions Trophy matches at Karachi’s Nationwide Financial institution Cricket Stadium. Followers should carry their authentic nationwide id card together with a bodily copy of their match ticket for entry.
It is a creating story and is being up to date with extra particulars.
