Could you believe that the ICC opening match could have an empty stadium? The efforts Pakistan made to host the Champions Trophy 2025 will go in vain if they are unable to pull in the crowd, and the stadium remains empty for a major event like the ICC Champions Trophy.
The National Stadium in Karachi, specially prepared for the tournament, failed to attract a crowd for the home team Pakistan’s match against New Zealand. Attendance was low, and the atmosphere for such a significant event was underwhelming.
Is Pakistan ready to host ICC events?
Pakistan’s stadiums were prepared just a few days before the tournament. So the question remains: Is Pakistan truly ready to host an ICC tournament or not?
Notably, the PCB has not hosted an ICC tournament since the 1996 Men’s 50-over World Cup, making this their first since then. The ICC provided financial support to improve their stadiums, yet the PCB still fell short of attracting the crowd that the Champions Trophy required. According to reports, India had even offered to host the tournament.
Saar, Pakistan cricket is the biggest brand.
— ` (@Chad_JayShah) February 19, 2025
Babar Azam is the world's best crowd puller, saar.
All tickets sold out saar
پی سی بی کراچی کے سارے میچ کسی اور اسٹیڈیم میں شفٹ کر دے۔
— Abdul Salam (@ASalamSiyal) February 19, 2025
Poor participation in stadium by karachi#PAKvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025
Pakistan’s response
Pakistani fans mentioned that today is a working day for them, which is why they were unable to attend the match. However, some also pointed out that the stadium’s facilities are not adequate for watching a long game of cricket.
Well in their defence the stadiums are shit for spectators tho. Moshin naqvi should also worked more for Karachi stadium for better viewing experience.
— Pinocchio Khan(@RuhofzaEnjoyer) February 19, 2025
Michael Vaughan questions poor crowd turnout in Champions Trophy 2025 opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand
— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) February 19, 2025#ChampionsTrophy2025 #PCB #PAKvsNZ #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/kxhceWXz9I
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