Pakistan's cricket landscape is set for a historic transformation as it prepares to host its first major tournament in nearly three decades. The Champions Trophy, spread across Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi marks a watershed moment for Pakistani cricket. Security and organisation Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja, who played a pivotal role in securing the tournament during his 2021 tenure, emphasised the extensive efforts behind this achievement. "Convincing the world that Pakistan is a safe country and that it is capable of delivering such a global event from an administration point of view took serious hard work and convincing," Raja told AFP. Challenges and adaptations While seven nations will compete in Pakistan, India's matches have been relocated to Dubai due to political considerations. This arrangement reflects the ongoing diplomatic complexities between the neighbouring nations. Building credibility Recent successful tours by major cricket nations have bolstered Pakistan's credentials. Australia, England, New Zealand and South Africa's visits have demonstrated the country's ability to host international cricket safely. Beyond cricket Raja underscored the tournament's broader implications for Pakistan. "This Champions Trophy is a crucial step toward normalising Pakistan's standing in the global cricket community," he said. "It's about national pride and sending a strong message about resilience and determination. It is about youth engagement, cultural promotion, and building a global image. Now the onus is on us to deliver." The tournament, scheduled to run for two-and-a-half weeks, will be supported by enhanced security measures across the host cities. Recent years have seen a significant reduction in security incidents in major urban areas, further supporting Pakistan's readiness to host international cricket events.Original Article