Champions Trophy 2025 Security Concerns Grow Amid Kidnap Threat

Security concerns surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan have intensified after an intelligence warning about a potential kidnapping plot targeting foreign nationals. According to a CNN-News18 report, Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau has alerted security agencies about covert groups planning such an attack.

Pakistan’s Security on High Alert

Pakistan has tightened security at all three tournament venues—Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. Authorities have identified Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS, and other extremist organizations as possible threats. This situation adds to the pressure on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which had already assured enhanced security for the Indian cricket team following their earlier concerns about safety.

History of Security Concerns in Pakistan Cricket

Pakistan is hosting an ICC event for the first time since 1996. The country’s cricketing landscape was significantly impacted in 2009 when armed militants attacked the Sri Lankan team in Lahore, forcing international teams to avoid playing in Pakistan for over a decade. Security concerns have remained a major issue since then, leading to questions about the country’s ability to safeguard players and officials at major events.

Large-Scale Security Deployment Planned

To address these concerns, Punjab Police in Pakistan had already announced a comprehensive security plan for Lahore and Rawalpindi. According to The News, around 12,000 security personnel will be deployed across the venues and surrounding areas to ensure player safety. However, the latest intelligence alert raises fresh concerns about whether these measures will be enough to prevent any security breaches.

Indian Team’s Possible Final in Dubai

If India qualifies for the final, the title match will be played in Dubai instead of Pakistan. This decision was made earlier to address security worries. However, if India does not reach the final, Pakistan will retain the hosting rights for the championship match.

Uncertainty Over Hosting Future ICC Events

Pakistan’s ability to host major tournaments remains under scrutiny, given its history of security threats. With the Champions Trophy just months away, the PCB faces mounting pressure to reassure teams, players, and officials that their safety is guaranteed.