Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says the real task for Pakistan is not just winning the ICC Champions Trophy but also defeat arch-rivals India in Dubai on February 23.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the renovated and upgraded Gaddafi stadium on Friday night, Sharif said the players must give their best against India.
“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,” Sharif said.
The cricket rivalry between Pakistan and India have historically favored India in ICC events since the 1990s.
Pakistan’s most recent victory against India in an ICC event occurred in Dubai during the 2021 T20 World Cup.
The February 23 match carries additional significance due to India’s refusal to play in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and the current tensions between the two cricket boards.
Pakistan enter the tournament as the defending champions, having won the last edition in England in 2017.
“It is a big occasion for Pakistan that we are hosting a big ICC event after nearly 29 years,” Sharif said.
The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction with the stadium’s new facilities and appearance.
“I have full confidence that our team will continue to make the nation proud in the upcoming Champions Trophy.”
The inauguration event drew numerous notable attendees, including politicians, government officials, PCB representatives, national cricket team members, PSL franchise owners, and former PCB chairmen Zaka Ashraf and Najam Sethi.
The Gaddafi Stadium’s renovation was completed in 117 days.
The celebration featured performances by popular singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, and Aima Baig. The event concluded with fireworks, a drum show, and a light display. — (PTI)
