ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to be Hosted After 29 Years
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to return after an eight-year gap, with Pakistan hosting an ICC event after 29 years. The last edition in 2017 was won by Pakistan, and cricket fans eagerly await another thrilling tournament.
A total of eight teams will compete, and 15 matches will take place over 19 days. One of the most anticipated games will be the India vs Pakistan match in Dubai on February 23. Due to political tensions, India refused to travel to Pakistan, leading to their matches being scheduled in Dubai.
Pakistan PM Sets High Hopes on Champions Trophy Victory
Recently, Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif addressed the national team, emphasizing the importance of winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and defeating India in Dubai. Speaking at the Gaddafi Stadium renovation event, he said:
“Our team is strong and has shown excellent performances in recent times. But the real test will be winning the Champions Trophy and beating India in Dubai. The whole country stands with them.”
His statement highlights the intense Pakistan-India cricket rivalry, which remains one of the biggest rivalries in world cricket.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams and Groups
Two groups are formed from the eight competing teams:
Group A
- India
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- New Zealand
Group B
- Afghanistan
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
India will play their first match against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the high-stakes India vs Pakistan match on February 23 in Dubai. On March 2, they will play New Zealand in their final group-stage encounter.
Key Dates for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Tournament Start Date: February 19, 2025
India vs Pakistan Match: February 23, 2025
Semi-finals: March 4 & March 5
Final Match: March 9 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Reserve Days: For Semi-finals & Final
If India qualifies for the final, it will be played in Dubai instead of Lahore.
Pakistan’s Last Champions Trophy Victory & India’s Dominance in ICC Events
While India has dominated ICC events historically, Pakistan has also registered memorable wins, including:
- 2017 ICC Champions Trophy Final 🏆 – Pakistan defeated India
- 2021 T20 World Cup 🏏 – Pakistan beat India in Dubai
Pakistan’s team squad for Champions Trophy 2025 is expected to be strong, and fans hope they can replicate their 2017 success.
Gaddafi Stadium Renovation & Other Venue Upgrades
Ahead of the tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been working on stadium upgrades in:
- Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (🏟️ Increased capacity to 35,000)
- National Stadium, Karachi
- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
These renovations aim to provide a world-class cricketing experience for both players and fans.
The stadium inauguration featured performances by Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, and Aima Baig, along with spectacular fireworks.
Why is India Playing in Dubai Instead of Pakistan?
India refused to travel to Pakistan due to political tensions, leading to their matches being shifted to Dubai. This situation is similar to the Asia Cup 2023, where India’s matches were played in Sri Lanka instead of Pakistan.
This decision has led to debates among cricket experts and fans, but regardless of the venue, the India vs Pakistan match in Dubai will be a high-voltage encounter.
Champions Trophy 2025 Format & Rules
The tournament will follow the ODI format, like previous editions.
The top 2 teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.
Matches will be played in Pakistan & Dubai due to India’s travel concerns.
Pakistan vs India Champions Trophy 2025: A Rivalry Renewed
Pakistan’s Strengths
- A strong bowling attack, with world-class pacers
- Match-winners like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan
- Playing in home conditions gives them an advantage
India’s Strengths
- A dominant ICC track record
- Players with experience, such as Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli
- A balanced squad with depth in both batting & bowling
Prediction: Can Pakistan defeat India in Dubai once again, or will India continue their ICC dominance? 🤔
Where to Watch & Buy Tickets for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Buy Tickets Online: ICC’s official website
Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLiv, and ICC TV
Travel Packages: Available for cricket fans visiting Pakistan & Dubai
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a thrilling tournament, with the Pakistan vs India match in Dubai as its biggest attraction. With stadium upgrades, top teams, and high expectations, cricket fans are in for an exciting ride.
Can Pakistan win the Champions Trophy on home soil, or will India continue its dominance in ICC tournaments? The countdown begins!
FAQs About ICC Champions Trophy 2025
1. When will the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 start?
The tournament begins on February 19, 2025, with Pakistan vs New Zealand as the opening match.
2. Where will the India vs Pakistan match be played?
The India vs Pakistan match is scheduled in Dubai on February 23, 2025, due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan.
3. What is the venue for the ICC Champions Trophy final?
The final will be held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. However, if India qualifies, the final will be moved to Dubai.
4. How can I buy tickets for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
You can purchase tickets from the ICC official website and other authorized platforms.
5. Which teams will compete in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy?
The eight teams competing are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa.