Dubai: The excitement is building for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has released the fixtures for this highly anticipated tournament. India is set to face off against arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai on February 23, marking one of the most eagerly awaited matches of the tournament.
Tournament Overview
The Champions Trophy is set to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with matches held in Pakistan and a neutral venue in Dubai. This eight-team tournament features a thrilling lineup, with Group A comprising defending champions Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.Group B consists of England, Australia, South Africa, and Afghanistan.
Fixture Highlights
- Pakistan vs New Zealand: Opening Match in Karachi on February 19
- Bangladesh vs India: Bangladesh will start their campaign against India in Dubai on February 20.
- India vs Pakistan: The eagerly awaited match between India and Pakistan is set to take place on February 23 in Dubai.
Group Fixtures
Group A:
- Pakistan
- India
- New Zealand
- Bangladesh
Group B:
- South Africa
- Australia
- Afghanistan
- England
Full Fixtures
February 2025
- 21: Afghanistan vs. South Africa, Karachi
- 22: Australia vs. England, Lahore
- 23: Pakistan vs. India, Dubai
- 24: Bangladesh vs. New Zealand, Rawalpindi
- 25: Australia vs. South Africa, Rawalpindi
- 26: Afghanistan vs. England, Lahore
- 27: Pakistan vs. Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
- 28: Afghanistan vs. Australia, Lahore
March 2025
- 1: South Africa vs. England, Karachi
- 2: New Zealand vs. India, Dubai
- 4: Semi-final 1, Dubai
- 5: Semi-final 2, Lahore
- 9: Final will be held in Lahore, but if India qualifies, it will be relocated to Dubai.
Both semi-finals and the final will have reserve days, ensuring that weather does not disrupt these critical matches.
Venue Decisions
Due to ongoing political tensions, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has selected Dubai as a neutral venue for India’s matches. As a result, all of India’s group fixtures and the first semi-final on March 4 will take place in the UAE. Should India qualify for the final, it will also be hosted in Dubai, ensuring a smooth and secure environment for the players and fans.
This tournament marks a significant moment for Pakistan, as it will be the first global event hosted by the country since 1996. Looking ahead, Pakistan is also set to host the women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, where similar neutral venue arrangements will be in effect.
Historical Context
India and Pakistan have not competed against each other in any matches outside of major men’s tournaments since 2013, and India last played in Pakistan in 2008. The 2025 Champions Trophy promises to be a historic event, reigniting one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries on the international stage.
As the tournament approaches, cricket fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting these thrilling matchups and the opportunity to witness some of the best teams compete for the coveted Champions Trophy.
