The Champions Trophy is the first major cricket event hosted by Pakistan in nearly three decades and is regarded as second only to the World Cup in the one-day game.

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed excitement about the return of the Champions Trophy to Pakistan after nearly 30 years. The tournament starts on Wednesday in Karachi with Pakistan facing New Zealand.

Cricket fans in Pakistan are buzzing ahead of the Champions Trophy and hosting the elite one-day international tournament will rekindle the country's love affair with the sport, three former captains said.

Pakistan is poised to host the 2025 Champions Trophy, marking the country's first ICC event in nearly three decades. With strong batting and pace attacks, the team, led by Mohammad Rizwan, aims to defend its title amid high expectations and the excitement of home ground advantage.

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan on Tuesday confirmed that right-hander Babar Azam will continue opening the batting in the upcoming Champions Trophy. The eight-team tournament begins on Wednesday with the opening match between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi.

On a high after winning the tri-series in Pakistan, New Zealand take on the hosts in the Champions Trophy opener in Karachi.

As Pakistan gears up for the Champions Trophy opener on Wednesday (Feb 19), captain Mohammad Rizwan has stressed the importance of heightened awareness and professionalism in the team’s approach to high-stakes tournaments.