LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has chosen to forgo a $400,000 VIP hospitality box for the ICC Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, opting instead to sit with regular cricket fans.

The UAE Cricket Board had allocated a 30-seat luxury box to Naqvi, but the PCB chief decided to sell the premium seating and experience the tournament from the general stands.

Naqvi's decision has been praised by many as a significant gesture, reflecting his desire to stay connected with the public and avoid elite privileges. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is expected to draw huge crowds, and Naqvi's presence among fans is being seen as a humble and commendable move in the cricketing world. Moreover, the ICC has announced the sale of additional tickets for highly anticipated matches in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, including the Pakistan vs India game.

This includes tickets for Pakistan's highly awaited match against India on February 23, 2025, as well as other high-demand fixtures including the opening match between Bangladesh and India on February 20, and New Zealand vs India on March 2. Additionally, tickets for the first semi-final on March 4 will also be available. With overwhelming demand for tickets, especially for the Pakistan vs India match, the ICC has made the decision to release extra tickets to accommodate fans eager to witness the exciting clashes. To purchase the tickets, fans can visit the official ticketing link provided by the ICC.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off on February 19, with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand, followed by the much-awaited contest between India and Bangladesh the next day.