After nearly three decades, Pakistan finally played host to an ICC event as the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 got underway at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The historic occasion saw the home side taking on New Zealand in the tournament opener on Wednesday, marking a significant moment for cricket in the country.
However, despite the magnitude of the event, the atmosphere in the stands told a different story. Instead of a packed stadium brimming with excitement, the sight of half-empty stands raised questions about the enthusiasm of local fans.
The unexpected lack of attendance did not go unnoticed, drawing a wry remark from former England cricketer Michael Vaughan. Sharing his reaction on social media, Vaughan quipped, “Great to see the champions trophy being played in Pakistan .. First major event since 1996 .. Have they forgotten to tell the locals it’s on .. Where is the crowd ?? #ChampionsTrophy2025”
Great to see the champions trophy being played in Pakistan .. First major event since 1996 .. Have they forgotten to tell the locals it’s on .. Where is the crowd ?? #ChampionsTrophy2025
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 19, 2025
Here is the how other internet users reacted:
#ChampionsTrophy#PakvsNz
— काजू कसाटा / શનિ 🇮🇳 (@kaju_boy8890) February 19, 2025
🚨More than half of the stadium is empty in Karachi that too when home team is playing.🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/jzMGglguwH
Half the stadium is empty lmao and they are the hosts
— + (@Xaanx_) February 19, 2025
#ChampionsTrophy#PakvsNz
— काजू कसाटा / શનિ 🇮🇳 (@kaju_boy8890) February 19, 2025
🚨More than half of the stadium is empty in Karachi that too when home team is playing.🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/jzMGglguwH
WPL pulling more crowd than this empty stadium for inaugural match
— Santoshvk18 (@VK18foreverrr) February 19, 2025
It’s dumbest decision by @ICC to give Pakistan hosting opportunity #ChampionsTrophy #PakistanCricket #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/iLO2XQR8xg
On the field, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first, giving New Zealand the opportunity to set the tone with the bat. While the action promised to be exhilarating, the subdued response from spectators left many wondering why such a historic occasion did not receive the electrifying welcome it deserved.
