Sadiq Khan cheers for Pak-Eng final in Champions Trophy 2025

LONDON: Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has expressed his hopes for an electrifying final featuring Pakistan and England, as anticipation builds for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The much-hyped tournament, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, marks Pakistan's long-awaited return to hosting major international cricket after nearly three decades.

"I have a rule: I always support the winner. I don't lose that way. I hope it's a great Champions Trophy," he explained to Geo News.

It will kick off with an opening match in Karachi on Wednesday, where Pakistan will face New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium.

However, the most anticipated clash, as always, will be the high-stakes showdown between arch-rivals Pakistan and India, set to take place on February 23 in Dubai.

The 54-year-old Labour Party leader even asked the England and Pakistan cricket team selectors to call him if they wanted to, showcasing his dedication and love for the sport.

"Look if you are the elector of either Pakistan or England then I am available. I am free, I can take time off and will play," he said.

The mayor of London hoped that Pakistani star batter Babar Azam will be in the form and will play big knocks.

"England lost just badly in India. Pakistan's team has not been great recently. I hope Babar Azam comes back in good form. Australia is a really strong side, you cannot write off Australia. South Africa has a good team as well.

"I hope it's a great tournament; it's a safe tournament. I am looking forward to seeing the crowds come back to the stadium."

He expressed his dismay over the lack of visits to Pakistan by international teams for the past several years and hoped that the upcoming ICC tournament is a "successful" one.

"It's unfortunate that international teams have not been visiting Pakistan for many years. I am hoping it’s a successful ICC tournament. If the home team does well then it’s a good tournament. Maybe a Pakistan-England final," said Khan.

His remarks came two days after he attended the British Asian Trust (BAT) dinner to raise funds for educational and health development in South Asian countries where he also met Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan.

"Bollywood star Abhishek is a fantastic actor. We want the Bollywood and Pakistan showbiz industry to come to London and film here," he said.

"Bachchans are a lovely family. I have met his father and his mother is a great actress. London is the capital of culture. We had a great time at the BAT dinner.

"Importantly, the King's charity raised money for India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Thanks to Abhishek and all those who helped raise funds."