The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially designated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the neutral venue for India’s matches in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This decision resolves the longstanding deadlock between the PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over India’s participation in Pakistan-hosted games.
Security Concerns Lead to Hybrid Model
India had earlier informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it would not send its team to Pakistan for the eight-team ODI tournament due to security concerns. This decision disappointed the PCB, which initially considered withdrawing from the event. However, the ICC supported BCCI’s stance following the recent unrest in Islamabad, leading to the adoption of a hybrid model for the tournament.
Under this arrangement, while most matches will take place in Pakistan, India’s games, including the semifinals and final (if the team progresses), will be played in the UAE.
Venue Yet to Be Finalized
The PCB announced the decision following a meeting between its chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Emirates Cricket Board chairman Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. PCB spokesperson Amir Mir stated on Sunday, “We have informed the ICC about the UAE as the neutral venue for India’s matches.”
Although the PCB did not specify the exact UAE venue, Dubai is widely considered the most likely host city.
India’s Schedule for Champions Trophy 2025
India’s campaign will begin on February 20 against Bangladesh, followed by the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 23, a Sunday. The final group stage match will see India face New Zealand on March 2.
Meanwhile, defending champions Pakistan will play their opener against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. Their second group stage match will take place in Rawalpindi on February 27.
Group Details
The tournament will feature two groups of four teams each:
Group A: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand
Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England, South Africa
Except for India’s matches, all other fixtures will be held across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan.
This hybrid arrangement reflects a significant compromise, ensuring both India’s participation and the tournament’s success while addressing security concerns.
