espite lingering reservations, a lack of belief and scepticism from many, Pakistan is hosting its first major cricket tournament in nearly three decades. It has been a prolonged absence for the cricket-loving nation, which has missed numerous high-profile tournaments due to security concerns and issues along its Western borders. Compounded by occasionalpetty and childish problems with the eastern neighbour, bringing major cricketing tournaments back to Pakistan seemed impossible. If authorities can execute this Champions Trophy smoothly and safely, it will provide a substantial boost to Pakistan’s international reputation.

This will be the ninth tournament featuring three or more teams held in Pakistan. The country’s first major tournament was the 1987 World Cup (Reliance World Cup), with the final held in India. This was followed by the 1996 World Cup, where Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium hosted the final. The Asia Cup began in 1984, but Pakistan did not host ituntil 2008. Sadly, the 2008 Asia Cup was the last major tournament the country hosted until the partially held and somewhat haphazard Asia Cup in 2023, co-hosted with Sri Lanka.

Following the 2008 Asia Cup, preparations were underway to host the 2009 Champions Trophy and co-host the 2011 World Cup. However, the security situation in Afghanistan posed a significant obstacle for major teams visiting Pakistan. The 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore proved catastrophic, resulting in a decade-long hiatus of Test cricket in the country.

Fast forward to 2025 and international cricket has made a comprehensive return to Pakistan. Tours by Australia, England, New Zealand and South Africa have significantly bolstered Pakistan’s bid to host this tournament. While militancy remains a concern, the violence is now largely confined to remote border regions, far from the stadiums. The local administrations have also refined their security arrangements so that the cities function much more normally than in the initial days of cricket’s return when complete shutdowns were common. The completion of the proposed hotel within the Nishtar Sports Complex will greatly simplify team management.

All the participating teams will play their matches in Pakistan, with the notable exception of India, who have opted to play in the UAE. Though no formal justification was provided, it is widely accepted that geopolitical realities and the exercise of economic influence were decisive factors.

It is crucial to recognise the PCB’s position in securing the ‘hybrid’ model. This agreement not only guaranteed the Champions Trophy remained in Pakistan but also ensured Pakistan’s participation in the 2025 Women’s World Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup, with their matches held outside India. The PCB has astutely leveraged this opportunity to undertake significant renovations and upgrades to stadiums in all three host cities, representing a strategic and enduring investment in the nation’s cricketing infrastructure.

For many who cherish memories of the 1996 World Cup atmosphere, this tournament is a revival of those festivities. From the emergence of a new anthem in the form of JazbaJunoon to the enthusiastic support for the Sri Lankan team in the final, these events foster cultural exchanges, boost economic activity and enhance the country’s soft image.

A notable positive has been the tournament’s media coverage. While ratings and views remain a priority, criticism has largely focused on team selections and performance. 

Pakistan may not have fully overcome its challenges, but progress is evident. There was a time when English wicketkeeper Jack Russell was found painting at the final checkpoint before the Khyber Pass.

Today, the world is vastly different. With improved security and a more positive international perception, a substantial number of foreign fans are expected in Pakistan. They will hopefully leave with fond memories.

A notable positive has been the tournament’s media coverage. While ratings and views remain a priority, criticism has largely focused on team selection and performance.

A significant development is the shift of the expert panel comprising WasimAkram, WaqarYounis and FakhreAlam, from ASports to Dot Republic Media’s YouTube platform, Sports Central. Their show, The DP World Dressing Room, featuring international talents like Ajay Jadeja and CheteshwarPujara, has generated substantial interest. Their discussions, a viral sensation during the previous World Cup, are again anticipated to resonate with audiences.

This success has spurred other digital platforms to enter the cricket show arena, with the Tamasha app launching Champions Zone hosted by HaiderAzhar and Kaniat, featuring former captain Salman Butt, alongside 2017 champions Hasan Ali and Shadab Khan.

Ahmed Shehzad, Mohammad Amir and Tabish Hashmi have returned with HaarnaMana Hay on Geo News. While past commentary drew criticism, the addition of Rashid Latif this time around hopefully will provide a more focused performance analysis, reducing personal biases.

The state television is presenting its show Silly Point, hosted by Asif Khan with former bowler Tanveer Ahmed as a guest. Samaa TV has Shahid Afridi as the expert panelist for their show.

In the local cricket podcast landscape, Batta Fast, hosted by Ahmer Naqvi and Osman Samiuddin, delivers exceptional content. Naqvi’s vibrant cultural references and Samiuddin’s astute cricket analogies offer valuable insights, particularly regarding the sport’s less celebrated historical moments.

Unfortunately, the rise of abusive comments toward players on various digital platforms from balcony experts remains a negative trend. These individuals contribute nothing of value, often simply echoing trends from across the border, driven solely by the pursuit of online views, of which there is no dearth.

There is a general sense of goodwill, with people happy to see the tournament return to Pakistan and more understanding of logistical arrangements. Despite some recent inconsistent team form, the tournament’s arrival is a victory in itself.

Regardless of results, the fact remains that cricket is truly home and that, on some days, is all that matters. As has so often been the case, Pakistan cricket has found a way to rise again.

The writer is a digital communication expert and consultant currently