Following India’s decision to play their matches at a neutral venue, New Zealand has now dispatched a delegation to evaluate security arrangements in Pakistan. This comes ahead of their scheduled tri-series involving Pakistan and South Africa.

New Zealand’s Security Delegation

The New Zealand Cricket Board has sent a high-level team, including renowned security expert Reg Dickason and New Zealand Players’ Association representative Brad Rodden. Their mission is to assess security protocols in Karachi and Lahore, key venues for the tri-series. The delegation’s findings will influence New Zealand’s participation in the series and set a precedent for future international fixtures in Pakistan.

ICC’s Role in Champions Trophy Preparations

Simultaneously, an ICC delegation is also in Pakistan to discuss security arrangements for the Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament was initially slated to mark Pakistan’s first ICC-hosted event since the 1996 World Cup. However, ongoing security concerns have led to a hybrid hosting model, with India’s matches moved to neutral venues. This dual inspection—by New Zealand and the ICC—underlines the high stakes involved in ensuring the safety of players and fans.

The Hybrid Model’s Impact

In the ICC’s new hybrid hosting model, India and Pakistan will avoid traveling to each other’s countries during ICC events. This arrangement will apply to the Champions Trophy 2025 and subsequent tournaments, such as the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2025 and the T20 World Cup in 2026. While the model mitigates security risks, it also raises logistical challenges and reshapes the dynamics of global cricket.

What’s at Stake?

For Pakistan, successfully hosting the Champions Trophy represents a chance to rebuild its reputation as a safe destination for international cricket. The tri-series involving New Zealand and South Africa will serve as a crucial test of the country’s ability to provide secure conditions. Meanwhile, cricket fans eagerly await updates, hoping for a seamless tournament that showcases the sport at its best.