The ICC Champions Trophy is approaching, with the tournament scheduled to start on February 19. However, the situation in Pakistan appears to be becoming increasingly concerning. According to reports, the Pakistan government has decided to deploy the Pakistan Army and Rangers for the upcoming tri-series, which will feature Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand, starting from February 8. This deployment suggests a worsening situation in the country.
The decision to deploy the Army and Rangers was approved by Pakistan’s Interior Ministry. Specifically, a large-scale deployment is expected in Lahore. Media reports claim that the Punjab Home Department had requested the federal government, leading to the approval from the internal ministry. Meanwhile, there are ongoing concerns about the incomplete stadiums in Pakistan, with questions raised about whether the construction work can be completed before the Champions Trophy begins.
Completing the stadium construction work by the scheduled deadline is reportedly a significant challenge, with some suggesting it is almost impossible. Nevertheless, officials from the Pakistan Cricket Board are confident that the work will be finished on time. Recently, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Mohsin Naqvi, expressed confidence that the construction would be completed by the deadline. The Champions Trophy is set to start on February 19, and the Indian team will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20.