Former players Inzamam-ul-Haq, Aamer Sohail, and Misbah-ul-Haq view the tournament’s return to Pakistan as a renewal after years of isolation from international cricket.
Inzamam noted that discussions about the event had become a part of everyday life across the country, with conversations taking place in homes, schools, and markets.
The significance of event is amplified by the return of Pakistan as host after a long absence since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore.
The attack resulted in Pakistan playing home fixtures in the UAE for several years, with visiting teams only gradually resuming tours from 2018 onwards.
Inzamam remarked that those years had felt like a punishment, causing the nation’s cricket to suffer.
Misbah, who led Pakistan to notable successes during his tenure as Test captain, underlined the impact of live international cricket on aspiring players and supporters.
He suggested that a lack of such experiences had disrupted the natural growth of cricket in the country.
Aamer Sohail, reflecting on a recent match against South Africa where Pakistan achieved a record run chase, highlighted the vibrant atmosphere created by both players and spectators.
He viewed this interaction as a positive sign for the upcoming tournament.