For the first time in 28 years, Pakistan is set to host an ICC event. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be played from 19 February to 10 March, and the matches will take place across three major cities in Pakistan: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. The tournament will feature eight teams, with some matches also hosted in Dubai.
Statements from Key Figures
Mohsin Naqvi, PCB Chairman, expressed his excitement about hosting this prestigious event after nearly three decades. He said, “We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport.”
He continued, “Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, highlighting our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and showcasing our capabilities as a premier event organizer.”
Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s white-ball captain, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “As a cricket-loving country, we are all very excited to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Having done well in the ODIs recently adds to the excitement, and we eagerly look forward to playing in front of our home crowd.”
Rizwan also mentioned the importance of hosting the ICC event, saying, “Hosting the ICC Champions Trophy is a great occasion, especially as we are the defending champions. We will try to meet the expectations of our fans.”
Match Venues and Schedule
The three main venues in Pakistan will be Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Karachi and Rawalpindi will each host three group matches. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will host a minimum of four matches. All the matches will start at 2:00 PM local time.
The tournament will kick off on 19 February with a match between Pakistan and New Zealand at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. Pakistan’s next match will be against India at Dubai’s International Cricket Stadium (DICS) on 23 February. Their third and final group match will be played in Rawalpindi against Bangladesh on 27 February.
Full schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (PKT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19 Feb | Pakistan v New Zealand | National Bank Stadium, Karachi | 2:00 PM |
| 20 Feb | Bangladesh v India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai | 2:00 PM |
| 21 Feb | Afghanistan v South Africa | National Bank Stadium, Karachi | 2:00 PM |
| 22 Feb | Australia v England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 2:00 PM |
| 23 Feb | Pakistan v India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai | 2:00 PM |
| 24 Feb | Bangladesh v New Zealand | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | 2:00 PM |
| 25 Feb | Australia v South Africa | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | 2:00 PM |
| 26 Feb | Afghanistan v England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 2:00 PM |
| 27 Feb | Pakistan v Bangladesh | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | 2:00 PM |
| 28 Feb | Afghanistan v Australia | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 2:00 PM |
| 1 Mar | South Africa v England | National Bank Stadium, Karachi | 2:00 PM |
| 2 Mar | New Zealand v India | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai | 2:00 PM |
| 4 Mar | Semi-final 1 | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai* | 2:00 PM |
| 5 Mar | Semi-final 2 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore** | 2:00 PM |
| 9 Mar | Final | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore*** | 2:00 PM |
*Semi-final 1 will involve India if they qualify.
**Semi-final 2 will involve Pakistan if they qualify.
***If India qualifies for the final, it will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.
Semi-Finals and Final
The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals. The first semi-final will be played at DICS in Dubai on 4 March. The second semi-final will take place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on 5 March. The final match will be played on 9 March, and the venue will either be Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore or DICS in Dubai, depending on the teams involved.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 is a momentous occasion for the country, marking the return of an ICC event after 28 years. With passionate fans and exciting cricket ahead, Pakistan is ready to showcase its ability to organize major international events. The tournament promises to bring unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.
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