ICC reveals full schedule for Champions Cup 2025; India faces Pakistan in Dubai

the International Cricket Council (ICC) It has officially released the timeline for the long-awaited event Champions Cup 2025is scheduled to host it Pakistan In cooperation with a neutral location United Arab Emirates (UAE)for matches involving India Due to security concerns. The announcement puts an end to months of speculation and negotiations, paving the way for an exciting cricket spectacle from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

Tournament overview

• Dates: From February 19 to March 9, 2025, with a reserve day on March 10 for the final.
• the difference: Eight teams will compete, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan (host) and South Africa.
• appearance: The teams are divided into two groups, each group consisting of four teams, and play in a round-robin league system, with the first and second from each group qualifying to the semi-finals.

Key matches and venues

Opening match: The tournament kicks off with Pakistan vs New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, setting the stage for what will be a competitive event.

India vs Pakistan: One of the most eagerly awaited encounters, India will take on Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai, marking a significant moment in cricket history due to the intense rivalry and neutral ground decision.

also Read: Joe Root returns as England announce ODI squad for 2025 Champions Trophy and tour of India

Group stage matches

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

Knockout stages:

Semi-final:

• March 4: First in Group A vs. second in Group B (Dubai)
• March 5: 1st Group B vs 2nd Group A (Dubai, with a reserve day on 6 March)

last: March 9 in Lahore, with a move to Dubai if India qualify.

Place dynamics

Pakistan: The matches will be held in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi. Lahore will host the final if India does not qualify, showcasing the best cricket grounds in Pakistan.

United Arab Emirates: Dubai will be the neutral venue for all India’s group stage matches, ensuring their participation without prejudice to security concerns. The semi-finals and possibly the final will also be held here if India qualifies.

also Read: SA vs PAK: Saim Ayub enters exclusive club alongside Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli after impressive ton in 3rd ODI