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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially released the schedule for the much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan in collaboration with a neutral venue, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), for matches involving India due to security concerns. This announcement brings an end to months of speculation and negotiation, setting the stage for a thrilling cricketing spectacle from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Tournament overview
- Dates: February 19 to March 9, 2025, with a reserve day on March 10 for the final.
- Teams: Eight teams will compete, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan (hosts), and South Africa.
- Format: The teams are divided into two groups of four, playing in a round-robin format, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals.
Key matches and venues
Opening Match: The tournament kicks off with Pakistan versus New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, setting the tone for what promises to be a competitive event.
India versus Pakistan: One of the most eagerly awaited clashes, India will face Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai, marking a significant moment in cricket history due to the intense rivalry and the neutral venue decision.
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Group stage matches
- 19 February, Pakistan v New Zealand, Karachi, Pakistan
- 20 February, Bangladesh v India, Dubai
- 21 February, Afghanistan v South Africa, Karachi, Pakistan
- 22 February, Australia v England, Lahore, Pakistan
- 23 February, Pakistan v India, Dubai
- 24 February, Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- 25 February, Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- 26 February, Afghanistan v England, Lahore, Pakistan
- 27 February, Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- 28 February, Afghanistan v Australia, Lahore, Pakistan
- 1 March, South Africa v England, Karachi, Pakistan
- 2 March, New Zealand v India, Dubai
Knockout Stages:
Semi-finals:
- March 4: 1st Group A vs. 2nd Group B (Dubai)
- March 5: 1st Group B vs. 2nd Group A (Dubai, with a reserve day on March 6)
Final: March 9 in Lahore, with the provision to move to Dubai if India qualifies.
Venue Dynamics
Pakistan: Matches will be hosted in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Lahore will host the final if India does not qualify, showcasing Pakistan’s premier cricketing venues.
UAE: Dubai will be the neutral venue for all of India’s group stage matches, ensuring their participation without compromising on security concerns. The semi-finals and potentially the final will also be held here if India advances.
