The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially unveiled the schedule for the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ending months of speculation. The tournament, featuring eight top-ranked teams, will take place from February 19 to March 9 across venues in Pakistan and Dubai, showcasing 15 thrilling 50-over matches.
One of the most anticipated matches of the tournament will see arch-rivals India and Pakistan face off on February 23 in Dubai. This high-stakes encounter is expected to draw massive attention, continuing the intense rivalry that has become a hallmark of global cricket events.
Pakistan will kick off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a Group A clash against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. As the defending champions and co-hosts, Pakistan will be eager to make a strong start in front of their home crowd. This opening match promises to set the tone for their tournament, as they look to leverage familiar conditions and home support against a formidable New Zealand side.
Following their opener, Pakistan will face Bangladesh and arch-rivals India in the group stage, with the latter being the marquee match of the tournament, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai. The team’s performance in these matches will be crucial for their semi-final aspirations, with Pakistan’s passionate fan base expecting spirited displays. As one of the tournament’s favorites, Pakistan’s journey in the Champions Trophy will be closely watched by cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
The Champions Trophy will be hosted across four venues: Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi in Pakistan, and Dubai. Each Pakistani city will host three group-stage matches, with Lahore set to host the second semi-final and the final.
However, if India qualifies for the final, the match will be relocated to Dubai due to political sensitivities. Both semi-finals and the final will have reserve days to ensure a fair outcome in case of interruptions.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will feature two competitive groups, each comprising four of the world’s top cricketing nations. Group A includes defending Champions Trophy winners and hosts Pakistan, their arch-rivals India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. This group promises intense matchups, particularly the high-profile India-Pakistan clash. Group B features Cricket World Cup 2023 champions Australia alongside South Africa, England, and Afghanistan, offering a blend of experienced teams and rising cricketing powerhouses. Both groups are expected to deliver thrilling cricket, setting the stage for a fiercely contested tournament.
| Group A | Group B |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | South Africa |
| India | Australia |
| New Zealand | Afghanistan |
| Bangladesh | England |
The action kicks off on February 19 with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the Group A opener in Karachi. Dubai’s matches begin the next day, featuring India’s opening game against Bangladesh.
In Group B, Afghanistan will square off against South Africa in Karachi on February 21.
The group stage will witness several blockbuster encounters, including a clash between England and Australia on February 22 in Lahore. This match will set the stage for the much-anticipated India-Pakistan encounter on February 23.
The semi-finals are slated for March 6 and 7, with the first semi-final scheduled in Dubai and the second in Lahore. The grand finale will be held on March 9 in Lahore unless India qualifies, in which case Dubai will host the final.
Also See: 2025 ICC Champions Trophy Schedule, Match Dates, Venues and Timing
Champions Trophy Schedule:
- February 19: Pakistan v New Zealand, Karachi, Pakistan
- February 20: Bangladesh v India, Dubai
- February 21: Afghanistan v South Africa, Karachi, Pakistan
- February 22: Australia v England, Lahore, Pakistan
- February 23: Pakistan v India, Dubai
- February 24: Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- February 25: Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- February 26: Afghanistan v England, Lahore, Pakistan
- February 27: Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- February 28: Afghanistan v Australia, Lahore, Pakistan
- March 1: South Africa v England, Karachi, Pakistan
- March 2: New Zealand v India, Dubai
- March 4: Semi-final 1, Dubai
- March 5: Semi-final 2, Lahore, Pakistan
- March 9: Final, Lahore (unless India qualifies, when it will be played in Dubai)
March 10 has been designated as the reserve day for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, ensuring flexibility in case of any disruptions.