The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to light up the cricketing world with its grand return, and cricket fans worldwide are abuzz with excitement as the schedule has been officially announced. Hosted jointly by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this tournament marks a historic moment, being Pakistan’s first major ICC event since 1996.
Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, the competition promises thrilling encounters between the world’s top cricketing nations.
Overview of ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature eight teams, divided into two groups, battling it out in 15 matches across iconic venues in Pakistan and the UAE. The tournament will showcase intense rivalries and high-stakes cricket, culminating in a grand final on March 9, 2025.
Tournament Format and Groups
The participating teams are split into two groups:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh
- Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan
Each team will play three group-stage matches, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals.
Match Schedule
Date | Fixture | Venue |
---|---|---|
19 Feb | Pakistan vs. New Zealand | National Stadium, Karachi |
20 Feb | Bangladesh vs. India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
21 Feb | Afghanistan vs. South Africa | National Stadium, Karachi |
22 Feb | Australia vs. England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
23 Feb | Pakistan vs. India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
24 Feb | Bangladesh vs. New Zealand | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
25 Feb | Australia vs. South Africa | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
26 Feb | Afghanistan vs. England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
27 Feb | Pakistan vs. Bangladesh | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
28 Feb | Afghanistan vs. Australia | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
1 Mar | South Africa vs. England | National Stadium, Karachi |
2 Mar | New Zealand vs. India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
4 Mar | Semi-final 1 | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
5 Mar | Semi-final 2 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
9 Mar | Final | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
Note:
- If India qualifies for the semi-final or final, the matches will be held in Dubai.
- If Pakistan qualifies, the matches will be played in Lahore.
Key Highlights of the Schedule
- Opening Match: Pakistan kicks off the tournament against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19.
- India vs. Pakistan Clash: One of the most anticipated matches of the tournament is set for February 23 in Dubai.
- Semi-Finals and Final: The semi-finals are scheduled for March 4 and 5, followed by the grand finale in Lahore on March 9.
Also Read: Pakistan Whitewashes South Africa in ODI Series on Their Home Grounds
Venues Hosting the ICC Champions Trophy
The matches will be played across four iconic venues:
- National Stadium, Karachi (Pakistan)
- Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (Pakistan)
- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
- Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai (UAE)
These venues are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and are ready to welcome fans from across the globe.
What Makes ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Special?
This edition of the Champions Trophy is historic as it signifies the revival of major international cricket in Pakistan. With the UAE as a co-host, the tournament combines tradition and modernity, offering fans an unparalleled cricketing experience. Iconic rivalries like India vs. Pakistan are set to steal the spotlight, while underdog teams like Afghanistan bring the promise of surprises.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is shaping up to be a cricketing extravaganza, promising drama, rivalries, and unforgettable moments. With the schedule now unveiled, fans can gear up for a month of action-packed cricket across two countries. Mark your calendars and get ready to cheer for your favorite teams!
Other ICC Champions Trophy Related Question?
- When will the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 begin?
The tournament starts on February 19, 2025, with the opening match in Karachi. - Who are the host nations for the 2025 Champions Trophy?
Pakistan and the UAE are co-hosting the event. - When is the India vs. Pakistan match scheduled?
The highly anticipated match is set for February 23, 2025, in Dubai. - Where will the final be played?
The final will take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on March 9, 2025. - How many teams are participating in the tournament?
Eight teams will compete in the Champions Trophy 2025.