ISLAMABAD: Cricket’s fiercest rivalry will reignite as Pakistan faces arch-rival India in the marquee group-stage match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy on February 23 in Dubai. The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the much-awaited schedule for the global cricketing spectacle on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation.
India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns prompted a delay in finalizing the schedule and led to a hybrid model for the tournament. Pakistan, as the official host, will stage a minimum of 10 matches across Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore. However, India’s Group A matches against Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, as well as any potential semifinal and final appearances, will all take place in Dubai.
“The ICC is delighted to release the schedule, marking the tournament’s much-anticipated first return since 2017,” said ICC Chair Jay Shah in a statement. “This edition will take place in Pakistan and the UAE, offering a unique blend of cricketing heritage and modernity. Fans can expect 15 thrilling matches as eight teams battle for the coveted white jackets.”
Defending champions Pakistan will host their first global cricket event since 1996, a milestone for the country’s cricketing history. Group B teams—Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa—will play all their group-stage matches in Pakistan.
In a landmark decision, the ICC confirmed that Pakistan will not tour India during the 2024-27 cycle. This arrangement mirrors India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Pakistan will instead play at neutral venues when India hosts tournaments, including the 2025 Women’s World Cup and the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by Sri Lanka.
As a conciliatory gesture, Pakistan has been awarded hosting rights for the 2028 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi lauded the resolution, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration within international cricket. “We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect,” Naqvi said. “Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, underlining our capability to organize events of this stature. We are committed to making this tournament a memorable experience for players, officials, and fans alike.”
The tournament will commence on February 19 in Karachi, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match. As the cricketing world gears up for this monumental event, all eyes will be on the high-octane Pakistan-India showdown, promising an unforgettable chapter in cricket’s storied rivalry.
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