Pakistan is hosting its first major multi-country cricket tournament in nearly 30 years – the Champions Trophy. This event is seen as a big opportunity to improve the country’s image and attract tourists and investors. The tournament comes at a time when Pakistan faces several challenges, including political instability, as former Prime Minister and cricket star Imran Khan is currently in jail. However, the government and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) believe this tournament, featuring the top eight one-day international teams, can significantly boost the country’s reputation.
“The return of global cricket is not just about hosting matches,” said PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the country’s interior minister and security chief. “It is about restoring pride, igniting national passion and giving back to the millions who have stood by Pakistan cricket.” Cricket is hugely popular in South Asia, especially in India, where it generates a lot of money. Pakistan’s security situation has been a concern since the US war in Afghanistan began in 2001. A 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore led to a halt in international cricket tours to Pakistan.
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Significant Improvements Seen
Security has gotten much better in major cities since 2018, and international teams have been visiting again. The Champions Trophy is the first major tournament in Pakistan since 1996. Teams from New Zealand, England, Australia, Afghanistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and Pakistan will participate. India will play its matches in Dubai, including its highly anticipated game against Pakistan. The country is also working on economic recovery, supported by a $7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Naqvi described organising the tournament as a “monumental task” that required significant improvements in logistics, from roads and hotels to security. He added that visiting teams are happy with the arrangements, and the ICC has given the PCB’s security plan “unanimous approval.”
“Players are treated as state dignitaries for enhanced security,” said Shahzada Sultan, the deputy police chief for Punjab province, where two of the three venues are located. For the Champions Trophy, police in Lahore, Karachi and the cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have deployed over 20,000 officers, including snipers, on rooftops along important routes. Hotels, stadiums and airports will have heavy security, as will the roads connecting them.
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