Lahore
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed Lahore as India’s home base for the ICC Champions Trophy next year, aiming to provide top-notch security for the neighboring country. According to sources, this suggestion was included in the draft schedule sent to the ICC in late April.
Yes, Lahore has been suggested as the home base for the Indian team to minimize their travel and ensure the best security arrangements, the source confirmed.
Last year, India declined to play the Asia Cup in Pakistan due to security concerns, resulting in their matches being relocated to Sri Lanka. Pakistan is set to host the major ICC 50-over event from February 19 to March 9 next year.
While the ICC executive board has yet to approve the draft schedule, the PCB has also listed Karachi and Rawalpindi as additional venues for the Champions Trophy matches. This marks the first major ICC event hosted by Pakistan since 1996, although Pakistan hosted the entire Asia Cup in 2008 and some games last year.
The BCCI has not yet confirmed whether it will send the national team to Pakistan for the ICC event. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has hinted at significant changes in the Pakistan team following their six-run loss to India in the T20 World Cup in New York.
Additionally, Naqvi mentioned that Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi stadiums will be upgraded ahead of the Champions Trophy. The PCB also plans to hold the Pakistan Super League in April next year, along with a tri-series featuring South Africa and New Zealand before the ICC event.
