With the commencement of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Karachi, an ICC tournament has made its return to Pakistan after a hiatus of 29 years. This marks a significant milestone, as nearly three decades have passed since the last event. The cricketing landscape in Pakistan was severely impacted following the 2009 Lahore terror attacks, which resulted in tragic loss of life and injuries to several Sri Lankan cricketers, leading to a prolonged ban on the sport. It was not until six years later that cricket resumed in the country, with Zimbabwe being the first team to tour for a limited-overs series, while the national team had to adapt to playing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as their temporary home.

The journey to restore normalcy in cricket has been lengthy. While India continues to express concerns, the other six participating teams have arrived in Pakistan to vie for ICC honours. Notably, New Zealand, which had previously cut short its tour in 2021 due to security issues, has been present in Pakistan for some time, having recently participated in a tri-series and now competing in the Champions Trophy. Despite extensive security measures, the memories of past incidents remain vivid. Shortly after Pakistan's captain, Mohammad Rizwan, won the toss and chose to bowl, the sound of fighter jets overhead startled both the New Zealand openers and the spectators in Karachi.

As the fighter jets flew over the stadium, the noise level was so intense that Devon Conway instinctively ducked for cover before realizing the source of the commotion. When the camera panned to the audience, it was evident that a portion of the crowd was visibly alarmed, with some covering their ears and others clutching their chests. "They all got scared because of the loud noise of the jets," remarked a commentator on the Hindi broadcast.

Watch the video:

What Pakistan has done to enhance security

The government of Pakistan has deployed over 12,000 police officers throughout Lahore and Rawalpindi to maintain security during the Champions Trophy. This force comprises 18 senior officials, 54 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 135 inspectors, 1,200 upper subordinates, 10,556 constables, and more than 200 female officers. Furthermore, nine special charter flights have been organized for the fans.

The Champions Trophy will commence with the defending champions, Pakistan. The memorable final of the previous edition in 2017 remains vivid in the minds of many, where, against all expectations, the Pakistani team, under the leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed, delivered a stunning 180-run victory over India. Despite having suffered a significant defeat in their league match against their rivals, few believed in their chances when they reached the final against a formidable Indian side. However, on that crucial day, Pakistan showcased their remarkable resilience.

Fakhar Zaman's outstanding century propelled Pakistan to a formidable total of 338, while India was dismissed for just 158 in their chase. Mohammad Amir's exceptional bowling dismantled the Indian top order, taking out Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, and Virat Kohli, leaving India at a precarious 33 for 3. Although Hardik Pandya attempted to rally the team with a vigorous innings of 76 runs off 43 balls, it ultimately proved insufficient. His run-out following a mix-up with Ravindra Jadeja marked the end of India's hopes.

Read Also: Pakistan vs New Zealand: Kiwis Finish Strong with 320/5 in 50 Overs

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!