The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially released the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, marking the return of the tournament after an eight-year hiatus. India and Pakistan are set to face each other in a much-anticipated group-stage match on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium. The final of the tournament is scheduled for March 9, just five days before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 kicks off.
India to Open Campaign Against Bangladesh
India will begin their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20. Following this, the high-stakes encounter against Pakistan will take place on February 23 in Dubai. India’s final group-stage match is set for March 2, where they will take on New Zealand.
The tournament opener, however, will feature the hosts, Pakistan, taking on New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
Group Stage Breakdown
The participating teams have been divided into two groups:
Group A: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand
Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan
The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, which are scheduled for March 4 and March 5. The final showdown will be held on March 9.
Neutral Venues for Indian Matches
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be hosted by Pakistan, but due to longstanding political tensions, India will play their matches at neutral venues. This decision comes after extensive discussions between the ICC, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
As part of the agreement, the PCB will receive similar arrangements for tournaments hosted by India until 2027. This includes the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, which will be held in Pakistan.
Background: Why the Delay in the Schedule?
The announcement of the Champions Trophy schedule faced delays due to India’s initial refusal to participate in matches hosted in Pakistan, citing security concerns. Since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, India has refrained from bilateral cricket tours to Pakistan, and the last such series took place in 2012.
The matter required approval from the Indian government, leading to prolonged negotiations. Ultimately, under the leadership of ICC Chairman Jay Shah, an agreement was reached, implementing a hybrid model. The PCB, despite earlier objections, agreed to the neutral venue arrangement on reciprocal terms, ensuring its stature among the local populace remained intact.
Revival of the Champions Trophy
The Champions Trophy, last held in 2017 in England, is making a much-anticipated comeback. In the 2017 edition, Pakistan defeated India in the final to secure their first Champions Trophy title. This year’s tournament promises intense competition, with all teams vying for the coveted trophy in the 50-over format.
Key Dates to Remember
Tournament Start: February 19, 2025 (Pakistan vs. New Zealand)
India vs. Pakistan Match: February 23, 2025 (Dubai International Stadium)
Semi-Finals: March 4 and March 5, 2025
Final Match: March 9, 2025
As excitement builds for the Champions Trophy 2025, fans worldwide eagerly await the thrilling matches and iconic rivalries that define this marquee event.
