Champions Trophy 2025: PCB chairman confirms squad review

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi said on Friday that the selection committee had been reviewing the squad for the Champions Trophy.  

Naqvi confirmed that the committee held full authority to modify the squad if necessary. He underscored that every selection had been made with fairness and integrity. "Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf were included in the squad with sincerity," he said.  

He disclosed plans for a large-scale reconstruction of the National Cricket Academy, revealing that the current structure would be demolished and rebuilt after the Champions Trophy. "The National Cricket Academy will be designed in a new way," Naqvi stated.  

The PCB chairman also confirmed an agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding match passes. "A deal has been finalised with the ICC for match passes. The agreed amount will be received," he said.  

He further affirmed that the ICC’s official event on 16 February would include representatives from several nations.

Separately, Naqvi attended a special luncheon in Lahore to honour over 1,500 workers who had completed the renovation of Gaddafi Stadium in record time.  

He personally visited the workers at their seats and shared a meal with them.  

Expressing appreciation, Naqvi commended the workers for their tireless efforts. "You are the heroes of the nation. You all deserve congratulations," he said.  

The workers, in return, expressed gratitude for the PCB chairman’s recognition. "Naqvi Sahib, you have done an exceptional job," they remarked.  

Those who had remained at the stadium for three months voiced their delight at the transformation. "Seeing the stadium completed has brought immense happiness," they said.  

During the luncheon, the workers were served mutton korma, chicken roast, beef pulao and freshly baked naan.  

They also received zarda, raita, fresh salad, mineral water, soft drinks and Kashmiri tea. One worker commented, "We are having lunch with our ‘tools’ by our side."