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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has chosen to forego the 30-seat VIP Hospitality Box at the Dubai International Stadium for the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Instead, he has decided to sell the premium tickets—worth a whopping INR 94 lakh (400,000 dirhams)—and direct the proceeds into PCB’s funds.
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Naqvi’s Decision to Prioritize PCB’s Development
As per Pakistani media reports, Naqvi was offered the exclusive VIP box for himself, his family, and guests to watch the high-voltage encounter on February 23. However, he rejected the offer, instead choosing to watch the match from the stands to experience the raw energy of the fans and support the Pakistan team from the crowd.
The funds from the ticket sales, along with other seating receipts from the ICC, will be utilized to upgrade stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, as per the report. Naqvi has already communicated his decision to the ICC and the Emirates Cricket Board.
India vs Pakistan Showdown on February 23
With the 2025 Champions Trophy officially set to begin, defending champions Pakistan will kick off their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. Meanwhile, India will face Bangladesh in their opener on February 20 in Dubai.
However, all eyes will be on the high-stakes India vs Pakistan clash on February 23 in Dubai. The two sides have had intense battles in the Champions Trophy, with Pakistan holding a 3-2 edge over India in the tournament’s history. Their last meeting in the event came in 2017, where Pakistan stunned India with a 180-run victory in the final to lift their maiden Champions Trophy title.
Head-to-Head Record
- ODIs Overall: Pakistan lead 73-57
- Multi-Nation ODI Tournaments: India lead 18-8
- Champions Trophy: Pakistan lead 3-2
- Last ODI Meeting: India defeated Pakistan by 117 runs in the 2023 World Cup
With India winning their last five ODIs against Pakistan, including a dominant 2023 World Cup performance, the upcoming Champions Trophy clash promises to be another thriller. Meanwhile, Naqvi’s gesture has drawn praise for prioritizing Pakistan cricket’s development over personal luxury, adding another unique storyline to an already electric contest.
