The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the fixtures for the 2025 Champions Trophy, with exciting matchups and a unique venue setup. India will take on Pakistan in a much-anticipated clash in Dubai on 23 February. The tournament, featuring eight teams, will be held from 19 February to 9 March 2025, with matches hosted across Pakistan and Dubai.
Tournament Format and Groups
The eight teams in the Champions Trophy 2025 will be divided into two groups:
| Group A | Group B |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | England |
| India | Australia |
| New Zealand | South Africa |
| Bangladesh | Afghanistan |
Fixtures and Key Matchups
Here is a detailed breakdown of the fixtures:
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 19 February | Pakistan vs New Zealand | Karachi |
| 20 February | India vs Bangladesh | Dubai |
| 23 February | India vs Pakistan | Dubai |
| 24 February | Bangladesh vs New Zealand | Dubai |
| 25 February | Pakistan vs India | Dubai |
| 26 February | New Zealand vs Bangladesh | Dubai |
| 28 February | South Africa vs Afghanistan | Dubai |
| 1 March | England vs Australia | Dubai |
| 2 March | Australia vs South Africa | Dubai |
| 3 March | Afghanistan vs England | Dubai |
| 4 March | 1st Semi-final | Dubai |
| 7 March | 2nd Semi-final | Lahore/Dubai |
| 9 March | Final | Lahore/Dubai |
Neutral Venue and Location Changes
Due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan, India has opted not to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. As a result, the Pakistan Cricket Board has selected Dubai as the neutral venue for all of India’s group-stage matches and the first semi-final on 4 March.
If India advances to the final, scheduled for 9 March in Lahore, the match will be moved to Dubai as well.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to deliver high-stakes cricket action, with intense matchups and a unique venue arrangement, ensuring a thrilling contest between the world’s best teams.
