The tentative schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been revealed, with Pakistan set to host the eagerly awaited tournament.
According to a report by Samaa News on Saturday, the tournament begins on February 19, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match at the National Stadium in Karachi. The much-anticipated Pakistan-India encounter is set for February 23, expected to attract millions of viewers globally and highlight the fierce rivalry between the two cricketing nations.
Probable Schedule Highlights
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- Australia vs. England: February 22 in Lahore
- Pakistan vs. Bangladesh: February 27 in Rawalpindi
- Afghanistan vs. England: February 26 in Lahore
- Afghanistan vs. Australia: February 28 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Knockout venues
One semi-final will take place in Lahore, while the other will be at a neutral venue. The final, planned for Lahore, may also move to a neutral location if India qualifies, addressing diplomatic and logistical considerations.
Neutral venues for India-Pakistan games
The ICC Board confirmed on December 19 that matches between India and Pakistan in ICC events from 2024-2027 will be played at neutral venues, regardless of the host country. This policy applies to the Champions Trophy 2025, Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 (hosted by India), and the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka).
In addition, the PCB will host the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028 under the same neutral venue arrangement.
