ICC Champions Trophy 2025: All details
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a significant event in the cricketing calendar, marking the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, the tournament will feature the top eight teams from the 2023 Cricket World Cup, competing across venues in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Tournament Overview
- Dates: February 19 – March 9, 2025
- Host Nations: Pakistan and United Arab Emirates
- Number of Teams: 8
- Total Matches: 15
Participating Teams and Groups
The teams are divided into two groups:
- Group A:
- Pakistan
- India
- Bangladesh
- New Zealand
- Group B:
- Afghanistan
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
Venue Allocation
Due to geopolitical considerations, all matches involving India will be held in Dubai. This decision follows the Indian government’s advisement against traveling to Pakistan. Consequently, India’s group-stage matches, potential semi-final, and final (if qualified) are scheduled in Dubai.
Match Schedule
Here is the detailed match schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 19, Wed | Pakistan vs. New Zealand | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Feb 20, Thu | Bangladesh vs. India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
| Feb 21, Fri | Afghanistan vs. South Africa | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Feb 22, Sat | Australia vs. England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Feb 23, Sun | Pakistan vs. India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
| Feb 24, Mon | Bangladesh vs. New Zealand | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Feb 25, Tue | Afghanistan vs. England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Feb 26, Wed | Australia vs. South Africa | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Feb 27, Thu | Pakistan vs. Bangladesh | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Feb 28, Fri | Afghanistan vs. Australia | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Mar 1, Sat | South Africa vs. England | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Mar 2, Sun | India vs. New Zealand | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
| Mar 4, Tue | Semi-Final 1 | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
| Mar 5, Wed | Semi-Final 2 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Mar 9, Sun | Final | Dubai International Cricket Stadium* |
*If India qualifies for the final, it will be held in Dubai; otherwise, the final will take place in Lahore.
Key Highlights
- Opening Match: The tournament kicks off with hosts Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi on February 19.
- India-Pakistan Clash: A highly anticipated match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
- Semi-Finals and Final: The semi-finals are slated for March 4 and 5, with the final on March 9. The venues for these matches are contingent on team qualifications, particularly concerning India and Pakistan.
Historical Context
The ICC Champions Trophy, often referred to as the “Mini World Cup,” was last held in 2017, with Pakistan emerging as the champions. The 2025 edition marks Pakistan’s first time hosting a major ICC event since the 1996 Cricket World Cup, underscoring the nation’s re-emergence as a central venue for international cricket.
Broadcast and Viewership
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide can anticipate comprehensive coverage of the tournament, with live broadcasts, streaming options, and in-depth analyses provided by major sports networks and digital platforms. The ICC is expected to release detailed broadcast information closer to the tournament dates.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to deliver thrilling cricketing action, reigniting historic rivalries and showcasing emerging talents on a global stage. With meticulous scheduling and venue planning, the tournament aims to provide a seamless and exhilarating experience for players and fans alike.
