Pakistani batter Fakhar Zaman has made bold predictions for the semi-finalists of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, raising eyebrows with his surprising picks. Despite the strength of traditional cricketing powerhouses like England, Australia, and New Zealand, Fakhar expressed confidence in Asian teams dominating the tournament.
Speaking on Basit Ali’s YouTube channel, Fakhar named Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and South Africa as his top four contenders for the semi-finals. “Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and South Africa are the teams I believe will reach the semi-finals,” he said, showing faith in South Africa over teams like Australia and England.
The uncertainty surrounding the hosting of the tournament was recently resolved as the International Cricket Council (ICC) unveiled the event’s schedule. The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams competing in 15 matches in the 50-over format. Matches will be held across Pakistan and Dubai, with Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi serving as venues in Pakistan.
The event kicks off on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in the Group A opener in Karachi. The Dubai leg begins the following day with India taking on Bangladesh. The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, a highlight of the group stage.
Lahore will host the second semi-final and is set to stage the final on March 9. However, if India qualifies for the final, it will be moved to Dubai. Both semi-finals and the final will have reserve days to ensure results in case of adverse weather conditions.
Full Schedule: ICC Champions Trophy Schedule 2025, match dates and venues announced
Champions Trophy Groups
The eight participating teams are divided into two groups:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan, England
England is the only team to have announced its squad for the tournament so far. However, the team has faced a setback with Test captain Ben Stokes ruled out due to injury. On the positive side, Joe Root makes a return to the 50-over format, strengthening England’s lineup.