Karachi: Pakistan hit early in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener and rejected the New Zealand Devon Conway and Kane Williamson in consecutive Overs. The brilliant start of Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium has electrified home fans and sets the tone of a strong performance.
In the past, Pakistan won thrown and chose to bowl first against their competitor New Zealand.
President Asif Ali Zardari and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also participate in the opening match as head guests.
The event also included an air display by Pakistan Air Force’s Sherdils team.
The eight-team tournament will be played across three venues in Pakistan-Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi as well as in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 19 to March 9.
The cricket fever is high among fans as Pakistan hosts an ICC event after a 29-year-old hiatus.
Pakistan last hosted an ICC event in 1996 – ICC Cricket World Cup 1996, which ended with the final at Gaddafi Stadium, where Sri Lanka defeated Australia with seven wickets.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi paid tribute to the commencement of the tournament as a victory for a peaceful and secure Pakistan. He said that the whole nation, including itself, is proud to host the event.
He also noted that Champions Trophy is not only a tournament but also a celebration of culture and tradition.
Naqvi expanded a heartfelt welcome to all participating teams that recognized the Pakistani people’s passion for cricket. He emphasized that the nation has once again proven its deep love for the sport.
Pakistan’s 15-player team:
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, Shahe Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan.
Security situation
Over 6,700 employees of the Special Security Unit (SSU) and other law enforcement authorities have been deployed to secure security during the ICC Champions Trophy in Karachi.
According to security officials, SSU has assigned 1,045 commands, including female officers, to manage security operations. In addition, 1,745 employees from the security department, 1,390 are from the traffic police, and 328 officers from the special branch are stationed across key spaces.
Security staff have been deployed at Karachis National Bank Cricket Stadium, the airport, designated routes, parking areas, hotels and other critical points. Sharpshooters have also been placed in sensitive places for extra security.
A specialized unit of highly educated commands remains on high alarm and will carry out routine patrols around the stadium.
Deputy Inspector General (You) Security emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful and secure atmosphere. He confirmed that security schemes have been coordinated with all relevant agencies to ensure a smooth event.
In addition, the authorities have issued strict guidelines for the penetration of spectators participating in Champions Trophy matches at Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium. Fans must carry their original national identity cards along with a physical copy of their match ticket to entry.
This is an evolving story and is updated with more details.
