Cricket fever peaks as Pakistan hosts first major ICC tournament since 1996

Pakistan is set to host its first major international cricket tournament in 30 years as the ICC Champions Trophy begins on Wednesday, bringing excitement and controversy in equal measure.

The tournament, last played in 2017, marks a historic moment for Pakistan, which last hosted an ICC event in 1996. The country was largely cut off from international cricket after a 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore.

Over the past decade, Pakistan has made a gradual return to hosting international matches, welcoming teams from Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa. Those successful tours helped Pakistan secure hosting rights for this year’s Champions Trophy.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has renovated stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi to prepare for the event. The tournament will run from Feb. 19 to March 9, with eight teams competing for the title.

India refuses to play in Pakistan

Despite the historic nature of the tournament, political tensions have cast a shadow over the event. India has refused to play its matches on Pakistani soil, citing security concerns. As a result, the ICC has adopted a hybrid model, shifting India’s matches to Dubai.

Under this arrangement, India’s group-stage fixtures—including its high-profile clash with Pakistan on Feb. 23—will be played in Dubai. One semifinal will also take place there, and if India reaches the final, it too will be held in Dubai instead of Pakistan.

Pakistan has responded by announcing that its national team will not tour India for the next three years. The standoff has added an extra layer of drama to an already highly anticipated tournament.

Fans fuel cricket fever

Cricket fever is at an all-time high in Pakistan, with fans eager to witness the return of elite competition. Ticket demand has surged, leading to long queues at sales points. In major cities, roads, intersections, and stadiums have been decorated to celebrate the occasion.

Security has also been ramped up, with heavy deployment of law enforcement in and around the venues. Authorities are taking no chances, given Pakistan’s past security challenges.

The tournament kicks off on Wednesday at Karachi’s National Stadium, where Pakistan will face New Zealand. The match carries extra weight, as New Zealand recently defeated Pakistan twice in a tri-nation series, raising concerns about the host team’s form.

Pakistan defends its title

Adding to the excitement, Pakistan enters the tournament as the defending champion, having won the last edition of the Champions Trophy in 2017. In that final, Pakistan defeated India in a memorable match in London.

This year, Pakistan’s squad is looking to reclaim that glory, but questions remain over the team’s consistency. With a home advantage, fans hope the team can overcome its recent struggles and repeat its 2017 success.

Younis Khan joins Nukta’s Pitchside

Adding to the tournament’s coverage, digital platform Nukta has announced that former Pakistan captain Younis Khan will provide expert analysis on its show Pitchside.

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Younis, who led Pakistan to its first T20 World Cup victory in 2009, will offer pre-match and post-match insights throughout the event.

The inclusion of a cricketing legend like Younis is expected to enhance the viewing experience for fans, many of whom still recall his leadership during Pakistan’s 2009 T20 triumph.

As Pakistan prepares to welcome international cricket back to its shores, the Champions Trophy promises thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and a test of the country’s ability to host top-tier sports once again.