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Pakistan is set to host its first ICC event in nearly 30 years, with the Champions Trophy 2025 marking a historic moment for the nation. The last time Pakistan hosted an ICC event was the 1996 Cricket World Cup, making this tournament a symbol of resilience for a country that has fought hard to bring back international cricket.
While India’s absence from the Pakistan leg of the tournament is notable, excitement remains high, with fans eagerly waiting for the matches to begin. Stadiums in Lahore and Karachi have undergone major upgrades, and the recent tri-series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa proved that the venues are ready for the big stage.
However, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has serious doubts about Pakistan’s ability to win the tournament, stating that the team lacks balance and struggles in multiple areas.
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“This is a Proud Moment for Pakistan” – Akmal
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Akmal expressed his pride in Pakistan hosting an ICC event after such a long gap. He believes that a successful tournament could open doors for more international events in the future.
“It is a very proud moment for the entire country. We are hosting an ICC event after 1996. I just hope this is the start of something new. If this event is successful, then maybe ICC will grant us more events. When the tournament ends, ask all the teams about the hospitality and support. I am hopeful that Pakistan will host many more events in the near future,” Akmal said.
Despite a low crowd turnout during the recent tri-series, Akmal is confident that fans will show up in full force for the Champions Trophy. Reports indicate that tickets for all of Pakistan’s matches have already been sold out, and there is strong demand for games that don’t feature the hosts.
“For the Champions Trophy, I am sure the crowd will turn up. You also need to factor in the popularity of ODI cricket. T20s are more popular, and people find it tough to invest 8-9 hours to catch ODIs. But I am hopeful that the crowd will show their support for an ICC event returning after a long gap,” he added.
“India-Pakistan Matches Will Remain a Dream”
The former cricketer also addressed India’s absence from the tournament in Pakistan, expressing disappointment that political tensions have prevented the two teams from playing in each other’s countries.
“India and Pakistan is a delicate matter. Whatever happens, it has to be at the top level. India toured Pakistan in 2004 and 2006, and their team also came here for the 2008 Asia Cup. But people like you and me will continue to be sad about the teams not playing in each other’s countries. We have also toured India many times, but I think it will remain a dream to see India and Pakistan playing in both countries,” Akmal stated.
Can Pakistan Win the Champions Trophy? Kamran Akmal Has Doubts
When asked if Pakistan could lift the Champions Trophy title, Akmal was brutally honest, saying that the team has too many weaknesses to be considered serious contenders.
“Pakistan ki team aisi hai chal jaaye toh chand tak, warna shaam tak. Our team has many loopholes. The bowling is struggling. Spinners are not there. The openers are struggling. I don’t know what the selectors and the captain thought. Even our chairman gave his approval. Let’s see how things unfold. The rest of the teams look much more balanced,” he said.
Akmal went on to criticize squad selection, questioning the thought process behind the chosen players.
“We could have announced a better team. I think India, New Zealand, England, and South Africa will make the semi-finals. Australia is depleted because of injuries to five key players. I don’t know the thought process behind picking such a Pakistan team. The chairman hasn’t played that much cricket; he doesn’t understand matters, perhaps, so he gave his approval for such a team. India looks like clear favourites; they deserve to play the final. But I can’t say the same about Pakistan. If they make the semi-final, I would consider it a big achievement,” he added.
Akmal further stated that even one big victory in the tournament would be equivalent to a semi-final for Pakistan, considering their squad’s weaknesses.
“If Pakistan beats one among India and New Zealand and is still unable to make the top four, I would still consider that Pakistan made the semi-finals. Such is the composition of our team,” he concluded.
Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
- Captain: Mohammad Rizwan
- Players: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
With Pakistan set to begin their Champions Trophy campaign, all eyes will be on whether they can prove their critics wrong and put up a strong fight on home soil.
