Security Costs to Dominate Champions Trophy Budget

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has arrived in Colombo for a key meeting regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy. The meeting, which is being held on Monday, focuses on crucial aspects of hosting the prestigious cricket event, including security budgets and logistical arrangements.

The Champions Trophy, scheduled to kick off in February 2025 across three cities in Pakistan, will see significant investments in security and infrastructure. According to officials, a substantial amount is earmarked for ensuring the safety of visiting teams and officials. The PCB has been praised for its efforts in providing top-notch security for international teams in recent years, including Australia and England. In addition to security measures, the meeting will address major expenditures related to hosting the event. These include board and lodging, as well as travel arrangements, such as chartered flights for teams moving between cities. Detailed financial documents regarding these expenditures have been reviewed in the Chief Executive Officers’ meeting held over the past three days.

The PCB has already begun substantial renovations of the stadiums that will host the Champions Trophy matches. The improvements are part of the broader uplift program aimed at enhancing the facilities and ensuring a world-class experience for players and spectators. This will be the first time Pakistan has hosted a major international cricket event in 28 years. The PCB is committed to making the Champions Trophy a successful and memorable occasion, demonstrating Pakistan’s capacity to host high-profile cricketing events.

The ICC’s Financial and Commercial Committee also met recently to discuss various aspects related to the Champions Trophy, including security, prize money for teams and players, and other related expenditures. The ongoing ICC conference is themed “Capitalising on the Olympic Opportunity,” focusing on diversity, environmental sustainability, and cricket’s return to LA28.