Pakistan to Host 2025 Champions Trophy: Full Fixtures Announced
The excitement for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is building as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially confirmed the fixtures. Hosts Pakistan will kick off the tournament with a thrilling encounter against New Zealand on February 19, 2025, in Karachi. The tournament, set to return after an eight-year hiatus, promises to deliver high-stakes cricket action across multiple venues in Pakistan and Dubai.
Key Fixtures:
- February 19: Pakistan vs New Zealand – Karachi
- February 20: Bangladesh vs India – Dubai
- February 21: Afghanistan vs South Africa – Karachi
- February 22: Australia vs England – Lahore
- February 23: Pakistan vs India – Dubai
The group stage will see Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh in Group A, while Group B features Afghanistan, South Africa, Australia, and England.
Group Matches Highlights:
- Pakistan's Group Stage: In addition to their opening match against New Zealand, Pakistan will face Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi. The high-octane India vs Pakistan clash will take place in Dubai on February 23.
- Bangladesh's Fixtures: The Bangladesh team will face India in Dubai and New Zealand in Rawalpindi.
- Australia & England: The match between these two cricketing giants will be played in Lahore on February 22.
Venues & Locations:
Matches will be played across three major Pakistani cities: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, with Dubai also hosting key fixtures, including India’s group matches and semi-finals. The semi-finals will be held on March 4 (Dubai) and March 5 (Lahore), with the final scheduled for March 9 in Lahore. However, if India qualifies for the final, it will be shifted to Dubai.
Important Dates:
- February 19: Pakistan vs New Zealand – Karachi
- February 20: Bangladesh vs India – Dubai
- February 21: Afghanistan vs South Africa – Karachi
- February 22: Australia vs England – Lahore
- February 23: Pakistan vs India – Dubai
- February 24: Bangladesh vs New Zealand – Rawalpindi
- February 25: Australia vs South Africa – Rawalpindi
- February 26: Afghanistan vs England – Lahore
- February 27: Pakistan vs Bangladesh – Rawalpindi
- February 28: Afghanistan vs Australia – Lahore
- March 1: South Africa vs England – Karachi
- March 2: New Zealand vs India – Dubai
- March 4: Semi-final 1 – Dubai
- March 5: Semi-final 2 – Lahore
- March 9: Final – Lahore (subject to change if India qualifies)
Key Changes and Challenges:
After months of uncertainty surrounding the tournament, the ICC confirmed neutral venues for India-Pakistan games, with UAE selected over Sri Lanka. This resolution followed the BCCI's refusal to play in Pakistan. The agreement was hailed as a sign of cooperation and respect, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasizing Pakistan's dedication to hosting a memorable tournament.
The Significance for Pakistan:
This marks a significant milestone for Pakistan, showcasing the country's ability to host major international cricket events. The PCB is committed to ensuring that players, officials, and fans experience the best of cricket during this prestigious tournament.
With intense rivalries, including the much-anticipated Pakistan vs India match, the 2025 Champions Trophy promises to be a thrilling spectacle, blending top-tier cricket with the energy of passionate fans.
