The countdown to the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan has begun, and the excitement for the tournament has reached fever pitch, with cricketing legends Ian Bishop, JP Duminy, and Tim Southee joining in the anticipation.
The trio have expressed their enthusiasm and support for Pakistan, highlighting the country’s rich cricketing heritage and its ability to deliver a world-class tournament after nearly three decades of absence.
All three former cricket greats shared their thoughts on the ICC Champions Trophy being hosted in Pakistan, a country that has long been a passionate cricketing hub but has not hosted a major ICC event since 1996. The tournament, scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, will see Pakistan return to the global cricketing stage with pride as the official hosts.
“I couldn’t think of a better place to be hosts of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 than Pakistan,” said Ian Bishop, the former West Indian pacer. Bishop emphasized Pakistan’s deep love for the game and the fans’ energy as key elements that would make the tournament unforgettable. The West Indian also praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for upgrading the cricketing stadiums across the country to make the upcoming Champions Trophy a memorable event for everyone involved.
"Couldn't think of a better place to be hosts of the @ICC Champions Trophy 2025 than Pakistan"
Former cricket greats Ian Bishop, JP Duminy and Tim Southee look forward to the tournament in 🇵🇰#ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/m494u1MxmC
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 17, 2025
Former South African all-rounder JP Duminy and former New Zealand captain Tim Southee echoed similar sentiments, noting that Pakistan’s legacy in world cricket makes it the perfect venue for the tournament. “It’s great to see the city again. To see such love and passion for the game, it’s great to have the Champions Trophy back in a cricket-loving country,” Duminy said.
Tim Southee also praised Pakistan and its passionate fans as a top destination for international cricket.
With the countdown to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 already underway, these cricket legends are not the only ones excited about the prospect of Pakistan hosting this prestigious event.


