KEY POINTS
- PAF’s Sherdil Squadron dazzled at the National Bank Stadium
- The show also featured JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighter jets
- The ceremony was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari as chief guest
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Sherdil Squadron dazzled the crowd with an exciting air show during the glittering opening ceremony of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday.
Ahead of the much-anticipated match between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand, the PAF aerobatic team took to the skies after a five-year break in the city, showcasing their skill with Karakoram-8 aircraft.
They performed intricate manoeuvres, including barrel rolls, loops, and bomb bursts, all highlighted by colourful smoke trails, according to Geo Super.
The show also featured the powerful Pakistani JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighter jets, leaving the audience in awe.
President Zardari as chief guest
The ceremony was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari as the chief guest, alongside Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Champions Trophy-winning captain Sarfaraz Ahmed.
To facilitate the air show, Karachi’s air corridor was closed from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM, with rehearsals held from February 17 to 19.
President of Pakistan Mr Asif Ali Zardari, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and ICC Champions Trophy 2025 event ambassador @SarfarazA_54 before the start of the opening match of the tournament at National Stadium, Karachi.#PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/A2ztNzzXcF
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 19, 2025
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to manage air traffic during this period, and commercial flights arriving at Karachi Airport were instructed to carry extra fuel and take necessary precautions.
Following the ceremony, Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and chose to field, sending New Zealand in to bat.
