The ICC’s Dave Musker praised Pakistan’s successful hosting of the Champions Trophy 2025, highlighting security measures that positively represent the nation globally. Despite logistical success, Pakistan’s team faced elimination without reaching the semi-finals, while the final match will take place in Dubai due to earlier tensions with the BCCI regarding security concerns.
The ICC Safety and Security Manager, Dave Musker, commended Pakistan’s arrangements for the Champions Trophy 2025, stating that it will project a positive image of the country, its residents, and security institutions on a global stage. This reflects the importance of effective safety measures during international sporting events. His comments followed the conclusion of the tournament’s second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand.
Musker expressed gratitude to Pakistani law enforcement, including the police, Rangers, and military, for their commitment to security during the tournament. Their full cooperation ensured safe conditions for teams and ICC personnel throughout. Notably, he acknowledged initial concerns from some teams regarding their travel to Pakistan prior to the start of the event.
He labeled the Champions Trophy a success, emphasizing that it showcased Pakistan positively to the world. The PCB successfully organized the tournament that began on February 19 and included 15 matches held in newly updated stadiums in Pakistan and the UAE under a hybrid model with India.
Despite the event’s success, tensions arose when the BCCI declined to send its team to Pakistan, citing security fears, which led to a prolonged standoff with PCB. Consequently, the final match will occur at a neutral venue in Dubai between India and New Zealand on March 9, marking the ICC event’s conclusion. This is particularly significant as it is Pakistan’s first hosting of an ICC tournament in nearly 30 years.
Unfortunately, Pakistan’s national team, the Men in Green, who entered the tournament as defending champions, faced elimination without reaching the semi-finals, finishing last in Group A against India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. They recorded two losses and had a washed-out match against Bangladesh, concluding their tournament run with disappointing results.
The Champions Trophy 2025 has highlighted Pakistan’s organizational capabilities and security measures, earning commendations from the ICC. While the event successfully showcased Pakistan to the world, the national team’s poor performance did not meet expectations, underscoring the challenges faced by the PCB in international cricket relations. The final match will take place in Dubai, emphasizing the ongoing dynamics in cricket administration and logistics.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
