Lahore: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Opening Ceremony was held in Lahore, attended by the Chief Executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC), senior officials of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), political figures, and former cricketers. Players from Pakistan’s 2017 winning squad were also present at the event. The renowned singer Atif Aslam performed the official anthem of the event, and the ceremony concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.
The curtain-raiser ceremony took place at the Diwan-e-Aam of Lahore Fort, with the ICC CEO, PCB Chairman, and Champions Trophy ambassadors in attendance. Several prominent national and international personalities, including members of Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy-winning squad, participated in the event. A panel discussion featuring cricket legends was also held, while the fireworks created a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Punjab’s Minister for Sports, Faisal Awan Khokhar, and Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, also graced the ceremony with their presence.
Among the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning squad members present were Mohammad Amir, Junaid Khan, Haris Sohail, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Wahab Riaz, Hasan Ali, and Azhar Ali.
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The brand ambassadors for this edition of the Champions Trophy, including Pakistan’s only winning captain, Sarfaraz Ahmed, along with South Africa’s JP Duminy and New Zealand’s Tim Southee, were driven into the Diwan-e-Aam in a special vehicle.
During his address, the PCB Chairman expressed his commitment to making the Champions Trophy a success, highlighting the global attention on the event and Pakistan’s full preparedness. He thanked security agencies, and the governments of Punjab and Sindh for their cooperation.
He further emphasized the significance of hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan after 29 years. “This tournament is more than just cricket; it’s an opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s hospitality and passion. For nearly three decades, two generations of cricket lovers were deprived of witnessing a global ICC event at home, but now it’s time for you to fill the stadiums,” he said.
The ICC CEO expressed satisfaction with Pakistan’s preparations and was particularly impressed by the renovation of Gaddafi Stadium in just 117 days, calling it a remarkable achievement.
Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed expressed hope that Pakistan would once again win the Champions Trophy. The musical performances by various singers captivated the audience, and the event concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display.
