'Entire Nation Stands Behind Them': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Urges Defending Champions To Beat India In Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has urged the national cricket team to aim for victory in the Champions Trophy and, most importantly, defeat India in their much-anticipated match on February 23 in Dubai.

Speaking at the inauguration of the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium, Sharif expressed confidence in the team. He reminded them of their past wins against India, including the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the 2021 T20 World Cup match in Dubai. He also emphasized the importance of Pakistan hosting an ICC event after nearly three decades.

“We have a very good side, and they have done well in recent times, but the real task now is to not only win the Champions Trophy but also defeat our arch-rival, India, in the upcoming match in Dubai. The entire nation stands behind them.” 

“It is a big occasion for Pakistan that we are hosting a big ICC event after nearly 29 years.” “I have full confidence that our team will continue to make the nation proud in the upcoming Champions Trophy.”

About ICC Champions Trophy 2025

To prepare for the tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has upgraded stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. The 35,000-capacity Gaddafi Stadium was renovated in under four months for the eight-nation event, starting on February 19.

India is the only team that will not play in Pakistan and will have all its matches in Dubai, including the highly anticipated February 23 clash against Pakistan. If India makes it to the final on March 9, the final match will be held in Dubai.