PCB Announces Schedule for ICC Champions Trophy Opening Events

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized the schedule for the opening events of the ICC Champions Trophy, aiming to present the event in a grand manner.

Sources indicate that the PCB has prepared a comprehensive schedule for the opening ceremonies, with Chairman Najam Sethi giving final approval to all planned activities. In preparation for the tournament, three stadiums across the country, including Rawalpindi, have been revamped to offer a fresh look.

The opening ceremony will take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 7, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expected to be the chief guest. The National Stadium in Karachi will host its opening ceremony on February 11, with former President Asif Ali Zardari likely to attend as the special guest.

Another major opening event will be held on February 16 at Hazuri Bagh, where top national figures, cricketers, and ICC officials are expected to attend.

However, due to delays in the event schedule and the arrival of teams, it is uncertain whether all team captains will be present at the opening ceremony. As a result, the planned press conference and photo shoot with all eight team captains may not take place.

The ICC Champions Trophy will officially commence on February 19, with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand at Karachi’s National Stadium.