When Was the Last ICC Tournament Held in Pakistan?

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Pakistan, a passionate cricketing nation, has long been a central figure in global cricket. The last time Pakistan hosted an ICC tournament was in 1996 when they co-hosted the ICC Cricket World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. Since then, the country has faced significant challenges in bringing international cricket back to its shores. Now, after nearly three decades, Pakistan is set to host the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking a historic return.

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When Was the Last Time Pakistan Hosted an ICC Tournament?

Hosting international tournaments is a matter of pride for any cricket-loving nation. Pakistan last had this honor in 1996, co-hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup with its neighbors, India and Sri Lanka. The final match was held at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where Sri Lanka clinched their first-ever World Cup title by defeating Australia.

Since then, Pakistan’s hosting opportunities for ICC tournaments have been disrupted, with the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore leading to a long hiatus from international events. However, Pakistan is poised for a major comeback, as it gears up to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.

The 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup in Pakistan

The 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup is special in Pakistan’s cricket history. Although the home team’s journey ended in disappointment, losing to India in the quarter-finals, the country made an indelible mark by co-hosting a successful tournament. The final, hosted in Lahore, was a thrilling spectacle, with Sri Lanka defeating Australia to win their maiden title.

This World Cup showcased Pakistan’s capability to host major sporting events. Still, unfortunately, it would be the last time an ICC tournament took place in Pakistan for a very long time.

ALSO READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Full Squads Of All 8 Competing Teams

Why Has Pakistan Not Hosted an ICC Tournament Since 1996?

The security concerns stemming from the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore led to a decade-long isolation for Pakistan from hosting international cricket. Many countries were reluctant to play in Pakistan due to safety fears. It wasn’t until 2015, when Zimbabwe toured Pakistan, that the country slowly began its journey toward reinstating itself as a safe and capable host for international events.

The return of major teams like South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand in recent years has been a significant step in restoring Pakistan’s position in international cricket. The successful hosting of the bilateral series paved the way for the announcement that Pakistan would host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.

The Road to ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be the first ICC tournament to be hosted by Pakistan since 1996. The tournament will feature eight teams and will be played across Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. Defending champions Pakistan will aim to retain their title after winning the 2017 edition, where they famously defeated India by 180 runs in the final.

This upcoming tournament represents a significant milestone in Pakistan’s cricketing journey, signifying its complete reintegration into the international cricketing community.

Conclusion

From hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1996 to welcoming the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, Pakistan’s journey to regain its place as a host nation for international tournaments has been long and challenging. After nearly 30 years, Pakistan is set to host an ICC tournament once again, marking the return of top-level cricket to the country. The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy promises to be a thrilling event for cricket fans worldwide, as Pakistan steps back into the spotlight of international cricket.

ALSO READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Incomplete Renovations At Karachi Stadium

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