Introduction
The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place from 19 February to 9 March, marking the first ICC global event hosted in Pakistan since 1996. Due to prior security concerns following a 2009 terrorist attack, this tournament represents a historic return for international cricket to the country.
Tournament Overview
The tournament will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with matches scheduled in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore. To ensure a world-class experience, all the stadiums have undergone significant renovations ahead of the event.
However, due to diplomatic considerations, India’s matches—including a potential semi-final and the final—will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the UAE.
Tournament Format
The competition follows a group-stage format, leading to the knockout rounds:
- Group Stage: The eight participating teams are divided into two groups of four. Each team will play against the other three teams in their group once.
- Semi-Finals: The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals, scheduled for 4 and 5 March.
- Final: The grand finale will take place on 9 March.
Match Schedule & Key Fixtures
One match will be played per day during the group stage, with all matches scheduled to begin at 09:00 GMT. The tournament opener will see Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi.
Warm-Up Matches
Before the official tournament begins, teams will participate in warm-up matches:
- 14 February: Afghanistan vs. Pakistan XI
- 16 February: New Zealand vs. Afghanistan
- 17 February: South Africa and Bangladesh vs. two Pakistan XIs
India is also expected to play a warm-up match against Bangladesh or the UAE, though the date is yet to be confirmed.
Groups for League Matches
Group A:
- Pakistan
- India
- New Zealand
- Bangladesh
Group B:
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
- Afghanistan
ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 – Full Match Schedule
Group Stage Fixtures:
- February 19: Pakistan vs. New Zealand – National Stadium, Karachi
- February 20: Bangladesh vs. India – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- February 21: Afghanistan vs. South Africa – National Stadium, Karachi
- February 22: Australia vs. England – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- February 23: Pakistan vs. India – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- February 24: Bangladesh vs. New Zealand – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
- February 25: Australia vs. South Africa – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
- February 26: Afghanistan vs. England – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- February 27: Pakistan vs. Bangladesh – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
- February 28: Afghanistan vs. Australia – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- March 1: South Africa vs. England – National Stadium, Karachi
- March 2: New Zealand vs. India – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Knockout Rounds:
- March 4: Semi-final 1 – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- March 5: Semi-final 2 – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- March 9: Final – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
All matches begin at 14:00 Pakistan Standard Time (PST).
Notable Changes in Pre-Tournament Events
Unlike previous ICC events, traditional pre-tournament activities such as the press conference with all captains and the official photo shoot have been canceled. This is due to the late arrival of certain teams, including Australia, which is scheduled to land in Lahore on 19 February, the opening day of the tournament.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be an exciting spectacle for cricket fans worldwide. With a historic return to Pakistan, a competitive format, and thrilling match-ups, the tournament is set to deliver high-quality cricket and memorable moments.
