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India’s matches in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place in the UAE, a decision solidified following a meeting between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, the head of Emirates Cricket Board.
The much-anticipated India versus Pakistan group-stage match is scheduled for Sunday, February 23, in Dubai. India’s other group matches include games against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on March 2, also likely to be hosted in Dubai.
Pakistan, the defending champions, will begin their campaign on February 19 against New Zealand in Karachi. They will play their final group-stage match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.
Tournament structure and schedule
The tournament features two groups:
Group A: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and New Zealand.
Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England and South Africa
Matches outside India’s schedule will be held across Pakistan in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi.
The semi-finals are slated for March 4 and 5, with a reserve day allocated only for the second semi-final. If India qualifies for the semi-finals, their match will be hosted in the UAE; otherwise, it will take place in Pakistan. The final is scheduled for March 9 in Lahore, with a provision to shift to the UAE if India makes it to the final.
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Hybrid model agreement
The Champions Trophy 2025 will operate under a hybrid hosting model. Under this arrangement, Pakistan’s matches in ICC events hosted by India until 2027 will also be played at neutral venues. This model ensures neutrality for both countries’ matches, particularly during the knockouts.
The agreement extends to future ICC events, including the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan.
This innovative approach aims to balance cricketing ties amidst political sensitivities, ensuring the participation of both nations while providing a neutral ground for their high-stakes encounters.
