Pakistan is eagerly preparing to host its first major multi-nation cricket tournament in nearly three decades, hoping the event will boost its global image and reassure the world about its stability. The Champions Trophy, set to begin next week, comes at a time when the country is grappling with political turmoil and ongoing insurgencies. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, once Pakistan’s greatest cricket icon, is now in jail, adding to the nation’s challenges.

Despite these issues, the government and cricket authorities see the tournament as an opportunity to showcase a safer and more welcoming Pakistan. Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of South Asians, and for Pakistan, hosting such a high-profile event is about more than just sports—it’s about national pride and restoring confidence among investors and tourists.

Pakistan has struggled with its international cricket reputation ever since a terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in 2009. That incident halted foreign teams from visiting for years, but security improvements have gradually brought cricket back, with international teams touring since 2018.

This Champions Trophy marks the first major cricket tournament in Pakistan since 1996. Eight of the world’s top teams will compete, but India has opted to play its matches in Dubai due to ongoing political tensions. The Indian government, citing concerns about cross-border terrorism, advised its team against traveling to Pakistan.

Despite lingering security concerns, Pakistani officials insist that violence is mostly confined to remote areas. The country is also navigating an economic recovery with support from the International Monetary Fund. Hosting the Champions Trophy has required extensive logistical and security preparations, from upgrading infrastructure to deploying over 20,000 security personnel across key venues. Authorities are going to great lengths to ensure player safety, treating teams with the highest level of security. AI-powered surveillance cameras, SWAT teams, and police forces are in place to monitor and protect players and fans alike.

For Pakistan, this tournament is not just about cricket—it’s a test of its ability to host global events and present itself as a stable nation. While the absence of an India-Pakistan match on Pakistani soil is a diplomatic setback, officials remain hopeful that one day, the two rivals will face off in a full-fledged series on Pakistani turf. Until then, Pakistan sees this tournament as a major step forward in reclaiming its place on the world’s cricketing stage.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.