PCB Finalises Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi as Host Cities for 2023 Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a bold decision to host the Champions Trophy matches in 2023 within the country’s borders, with Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi being finalized as the host cities. Despite rumors of a potential ‘hybrid model’ to accommodate India’s participation, the PCB remains steadfast in its decision.

The last edition of the Champions Trophy was held in England in 2017, and the upcoming tournament is tentatively scheduled for February-March next year. However, India’s participation is still uncertain, leading to speculation that the ICC may use the ‘Hybrid Model’ and hold the country’s matches at a neutral venue if government clearance is not obtained.

“We’ve sent the schedule for the matches in Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy,” PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced at a press conference in Lahore. “The ICC’s security team has inspected the arrangements, and we are working on upgrading the stadiums to ensure a successful tournament.”

The PCB has made it clear that the tournament will not be altered to accommodate India, citing the example of the Asia Cup last year where India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka despite Pakistan being the official host. Naqvi acknowledged that the condition of the proposed venues is currently sub-standard for hosting international cricket matches and emphasized the need for upgrades.

“We need to improve facilities in the stadiums, where there are some old problems. Karachi is in bad shape,” Naqvi admitted. “We are already late in the process, but we are confident that with the help of international companies, we can complete the upgrades in time for the tournament.”

The PCB’s determination to host a successful Champions Trophy in Pakistan is commendable, and cricket fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting the tournament in 2023.