ICC Confirms Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule; Matches Split Between Pakistan and UAE
The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday the long-awaited schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be held from February 19 to March 9. The tournament will take place across two countries, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), due to political and security concerns raised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
This announcement comes after a protracted dispute between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and BCCI. India had refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing political tensions and security apprehensions, despite Pakistan receiving assurances from ICC member boards about safety and security measures.
Hybrid Hosting Model Finalized
Following weeks of negotiations, a compromise was reached through a hybrid model. India’s matches, including the first semi-final, will be played in the UAE, while the rest of the tournament will proceed in Pakistan. In return, Pakistan will be allowed a similar arrangement for tournaments hosted by India until 2027.
The three venues in Pakistan hosting the tournament are Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Each will host three group-stage matches. Lahore will host the second semi-final and the final on March 9, unless India qualifies for the final, in which case the match will be shifted to Dubai.
The UAE, designated as the neutral venue for India’s matches, will host the India-Bangladesh game, the marquee Pakistan-India clash, and other fixtures involving the Indian team.
Tournament Structure and Key Matches
The eight teams competing in the Champions Trophy qualified by finishing in the top eight positions of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. These teams are divided into two groups:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Australia, South Africa, England, Afghanistan
The tournament kicks off with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, followed by India’s opening game against Bangladesh in Dubai the next day. The highly anticipated Pakistan-India clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
Other key group-stage matches include the England-Australia encounter on February 22 in Lahore and South Africa’s clash against England in Karachi on March 1.
Schedule Highlights
- February 19: Pakistan vs New Zealand (Karachi, Pakistan)
- February 20: India vs Bangladesh (Dubai, UAE)
- February 23: Pakistan vs India (Dubai, UAE)
- February 22: Australia vs England (Lahore, Pakistan)
The group-stage matches will culminate in the semi-finals on March 4 and March 5, in Dubai and Lahore respectively. The final, set for March 9, will either be held in Lahore or Dubai, depending on India’s qualification.
Champions Trophy Format
The tournament follows a group-stage and knockout format. Each team will play three matches in their respective groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. Both semi-finals and the final have reserve days to account for weather interruptions.
ICC Statement and Security Measures
The ICC expressed confidence in the arrangements, stating that both Pakistan and the UAE are ready to host an exciting and secure tournament. Pakistan has made significant preparations to ensure a seamless experience for teams and fans alike. The PCB has also confirmed robust security measures for visiting teams and officials, addressing any lingering concerns.
Conclusion
The Champions Trophy 2025 promises high-stakes cricket and riveting contests, with the top teams battling for the coveted title. As political and logistical challenges have been addressed through the hybrid model, fans around the globe can now look forward to an action-packed tournament.
