KARACHI: International cricket returns to Pakistan after 29 years as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off today with a thrilling clash between Pakistan and New Zealand at Karachi’s world-class National Bank Stadium.
The match will begin at 2:00 pm local time.
Eight top teams will battle for glory, as excited fans and passionate players gear up for intense competition.
President Asif Ali Zardari will be the chief guest at the opening match.
The Pakistan Air Force’s Sherdil team will present an aerial display to mark the occasion.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi will watch the Pakistan vs. New Zealand match live at the stadium.
“Champions Trophy is not just a tournament but a beautiful celebration of culture and heritage,” Mohsin Naqvi said.
Welcoming all teams, he added, “This event is a victory for a peaceful and secure Pakistan.”
“Today, every Pakistani stands proud. I am deeply grateful to Allah,” he stated.
FOOLPROOF SECURITY IN PLACE FOR CHAMPIONS TROPHY
Security arrangements for the Champion Trophy match in Karachi were finalized during a meeting at the SSU Headquarters, chaired by DIG Security Dr. Maqsood Ahmed. Special guidelines have been issued for spectators attending the matches.
More than 6,700 personnel from SSU and other law enforcement agencies will be deployed. Matches will be played at National Bank Cricket Stadium on February 19, 21, and March 1, 2025.
According to the security plan, 1,045 SSU commandos, including female commandos, will be on duty. Additionally, 1,745 personnel from the Security Division, 1,390 from Traffic Police, and 328 from the Special Branch will also be deployed.
Security personnel will be stationed at the stadium, Karachi Airport, routes, parking areas, hotels, and other key locations. Snipers will be positioned at sensitive points. The S.W.A.T team, consisting of highly trained commandos, will remain on high alert for emergencies and will patrol around the stadium.
DIG Security Dr. Maqsood Ahmed stated that Sindh Police is committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for all attendees. He added that the security plan has been developed in coordination with relevant agencies. A special SSU Command & Control Bus will be deployed around the stadium for surveillance.
All roads around the stadium will remain open for traffic. However, commuters using Sir Shah Suleman Road are advised to take alternate routes during match hours to avoid inconvenience.
PARKING & ENTRY ARRANGEMENTS
Special parking areas have been designated for spectators at China Ground and National Coaching Centre near the stadium for cars and motorcycles. The Expo Centre has also been allocated for parking. VIPs and vehicles with special passes will be allowed to park inside the stadium.
For entry, only the Main Gate and Gates 04, 05, 06, 12, 13, and 14 will be used. VIPs and vehicles with stickers or passes can enter through Gate 8. CNG-fitted vehicles will not be allowed inside the stadium premises. All gates will open three hours before the match starts. Spectators will have to undergo security screening at entry points.
To avoid delays, fans are advised to arrive early and carry their original CNIC for entry. A physical hard copy of the match ticket is mandatory. Online tickets will not be accepted. Those who booked online must collect physical tickets from designated TCS centers before the match.
PROHIBITED ITEMS & REGULATIONS
No outside food or beverages will be allowed inside. Glass bottles, plastic bottles, intoxicants, and prohibited substances are strictly banned. Food and refreshments will be available at stalls inside the stadium.
Prohibited items include firearms, toy guns, explosives, fireworks, cigarettes, matchboxes, lighters, handbags, sharp objects, and metal or wooden items. The use of drone cameras in and around the stadium is strictly prohibited.
Champions trophy: Traffic plan issued for Karachi