ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Schedule, Teams, and Key Highlights

After much anticipation, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has finally revealed the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, marking the return of this prestigious tournament. Hosted in a hybrid format, the competition promises to deliver exciting cricket as eight of the world’s top teams compete for the coveted title. The tournament will take place across Pakistan and Dubai and will run from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

Tournament Format and Venue Details

The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature 15 matches, with the eight competing teams divided into two groups. The tournament will be held in a hybrid model, with matches taking place in both Pakistan and Dubai.

• Pakistan will host matches in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore.
• Dubai will host India’s group matches and some key knockout fixtures.
• Lahore will also be the venue for the final, unless India qualifies for the final, in which case the match will be held in Dubai.

The tournament will include three group matches at each venue in Pakistan, with Lahore hosting the second semi-final and the final (unless India qualifies, in which case the final will shift to Dubai). To ensure fairness, both the semi-finals and the final will have a reserve day.

The Teams and Groups

The tournament features eight elite teams divided into two groups:

• Group A:
  • Pakistan
  • India
  • New Zealand
  • Bangladesh
• Group B:
  • South Africa
  • Australia
  • Afghanistan
  • England

The Champions Trophy will showcase some exciting matchups, including the much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan, which is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.

Full Schedule for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Group Stage Matches:

• 19 February: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Karachi (Pakistan)
• 20 February: Bangladesh vs India, Dubai
• 21 February: Afghanistan vs South Africa, Karachi (Pakistan)
• 22 February: Australia vs England, Lahore (Pakistan)
• 23 February: Pakistan vs India, Dubai
• 24 February: Bangladesh vs New Zealand, Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
• 25 February: Australia vs South Africa, Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
• 26 February: Afghanistan vs England, Lahore (Pakistan)
• 27 February: Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
• 28 February: Afghanistan vs Australia, Lahore (Pakistan)
• 1 March: South Africa vs England, Karachi (Pakistan)
• 2 March: New Zealand vs India, Dubai

Knockout Stage:

• 4 March: Semi-final 1, Dubai
• 5 March: Semi-final 2, Lahore (Pakistan)
• 9 March: Final, Lahore (Unless India Qualifies, When It Will Be Played in Dubai)
• 10 March: Reserve Day

Key Highlights to Look Forward To

1. Exciting Rivalries: One of the most anticipated matchups is the India vs Pakistan game on February 23 in Dubai. The rivalry between these two teams is legendary, and this encounter is sure to be a highlight of the tournament.
2. India’s Matches in Dubai: India will play all their group matches in Dubai, starting with their clash against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by matches against Pakistan on February 23 and New Zealand on March 2.
3. Three Venues in Pakistan: Fans in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore will be treated to live action as their cities host the group-stage matches and one semi-final. The final will be held in Lahore, with the exciting possibility of a venue change depending on India’s qualification.
4. Reserve Days for Knockouts: Both semi-finals and the final will have reserve days, ensuring that weather conditions do not impact the crucial stages of the tournament.

A Hybrid Tournament Model

This tournament is unique in its hybrid format, offering fans in both Pakistan and Dubai the chance to experience world-class cricket. With the inclusion of top teams like Australia, England, and South Africa, and the exciting potential of teams like Afghanistan and Bangladesh, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a thrilling showcase of global cricketing talent.

Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or someone who enjoys the thrill of high-stakes international sports, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to provide unforgettable moments and plenty of excitement.

Stay tuned as we bring you more updates leading up to the tournament and throughout the exciting matches.