The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy, confirming a unique hosting arrangement between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates that addresses the ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan. The tournament, making its comeback after an eight-year break, will run from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
In a diplomatic solution reflecting the complex geopolitical landscape of international cricket, the ICC has scheduled all India-Pakistan matches for Dubai. This includes their group stage encounter on February 23 and potential knockout matches, with the final venue contingent on India’s qualification.
The tournament will feature eight teams divided into two groups. Group A comprises Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and hosts Pakistan, while Group B includes Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. Pakistan, the defending champions from 2017, will kick off the tournament against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19.
Three Pakistani cities – Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi – will host matches alongside Dubai. The scheduling arrangement ensures that while Pakistan maintains its status as the primary host, hosting its first major ICC event since 1996, the political sensitivities are carefully managed through the UAE’s role as a neutral venue.
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ICC Chair Jay Shah emphasised the tournament’s significance, noting that the combination of Pakistan and UAE venues “represents an opportunity to showcase the best of cricket with heritage and modernity.” The Dubai International Cricket Stadium will host the first semi-final on March 4, while the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is scheduled for the second semi-final on March 5.
The final is initially scheduled for March 9 in Lahore, but with a crucial caveat – if India reaches the final, the match will be relocated to Dubai. This arrangement reflects the ongoing challenges in bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan, who currently only meet in ICC events due to political tensions.
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the schedule, stating that “an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect.” He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to delivering a memorable tournament experience for players, officials, and fans.
The Champions Trophy, known for its white jackets awarded to the winning team, has historically been one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments. Australia and India lead the honours list with two victories each, while Pakistan enters the 2025 edition as defending champions following their triumph at The Oval in 2017.
The tournament’s return marks a significant moment for international cricket, with the hybrid hosting model potentially setting a precedent for future events in regions where political considerations impact sporting arrangements. Cricket fans can now look forward to 15 high-stakes matches featuring the world’s top cricket nations in what promises to be an intriguing championship.
