Pakistan is set to host the ICC Champions Trophy for the first time in nearly three decades, marking a significant milestone in the nation's rich cricket history. The tournament, featuring the top eight teams in the One Day International (ODI) format, begins on Wednesday with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. However, due to political tensions, India will play all their matches in Dubai, denying Pakistan the home advantage should both teams reach the final.
The Champions Trophy, discontinued by the ICC after its eighth edition in 2017, returns to rekindle Pakistan’s love affair with cricket. Fixtures have gradually returned to Pakistani soil since 2018, following nearly a decade of isolation after the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team's bus in Lahore. During that period, Pakistan's national team played their "home" games in the United Arab Emirates, with Misbah-ul-Haq leading as Pakistan’s most successful Test captain.
“We were punished for 10 years. Our cricket went backwards.” – Inzamam
Former captain and batting legend Inzamam-ul-Haq expressed how the events of 2009 felt like a distant nightmare, emphasizing the isolation's impact on Pakistan cricket.
“The events of 2009 feel like a bad dream,” – Inzamam
The return of high-profile cricket to Pakistan is a cause for excitement among fans and young cricketers. Misbah-ul-Haq highlighted the significance of witnessing international stars play live, noting the enthusiasm this tournament has generated across the country.
“For fans and young cricketers to see the stars playing live is a big deal,” – Misbah
The anticipation for the Champions Trophy is palpable across schools, homes, markets, and offices throughout Pakistan. Inzamam described this widespread buzz as a testament to cricket's profound place in Pakistani culture.
“Right now, everyone is talking about the Champions Trophy – in schools, houses, markets, offices, everywhere,” – Inzamam
Pakistan's recent performance in a warm-up game against South Africa, where they chased down a formidable target of 352 runs, showcased the strong connection between fans and players. This successful chase stands as their highest in ODI history and sets an optimistic tone for the tournament.
The Champions Trophy also brings back memories of iconic cricketing moments involving Pakistani players. Inzamam's thrilling century against India in Karachi during a 2004 ODI and Aamer Sohail's infamous on-field spat with Indian bowler Venkatesh Prasad in the 1996 World Cup quarterfinals remain etched in cricket lore.
