New Delhi: The Pakistan government has approved the deployment of military and paramilitary rangers to enhance security for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
As per media reports, the federal cabinet has sanctioned top-tier security measures for the tournament, including the use of military personnel and rangers.
The decision was made under Article 245 of the constitution, which authorises the military’s involvement in security matters, Express News cited source.
In addition, over 10,000 police officers, including elite commando units, have been assigned to safeguard venues and team accommodations in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and federal interior minister Mohsin Naqvi is personally overseeing security preparations for the event, set to begin on February 19 in Karachi.
International teams are set to arrive in Pakistan on February 12 for the ICC Champions Trophy, with extensive security arrangements being coordinated by the PCB and the provincial governments of Punjab and Sindh. A PCB insider revealed that Naqvi has been in discussions with senior security and law enforcement officials to ensure a smooth entry process for spectators without compromising safety.
The Ministry of Interior has directed various departments to implement top-tier security measures to ensure the safety of players and officials throughout the tournament.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, just days ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, marking a significant milestone in its 65-year history. During his speech, he applauded the renovation efforts led by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, as reported in Express-News.
He also commended Pakistan’s cricket team for their recent performances and expressed optimism about their success in the Champions Trophy, particularly in their matches against India.
Meanwhile, India has opted out of travelling to Pakistan due to security concerns and will play all its matches in Dubai. Also, Umpire Nitin Menon has refused to go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
Whereas the Champions trophy usually features a captain’s photoshoot and media event, PCB has opted to skip these due to an under-construction stadium and other logistical challenges, as per Business Standard reports.
On the other hand, Harbhajan Singh and Shoaib Akhtar recreated their fight that happened during the 2010 Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan. The Pakistan pacer shared the video of the same on his X handle, writing “That’s our way of getting ready for Champions Trophy.” India and Pakistan will face each other on Feb 23 at the Dubai International Stadium.
