IND to Host Champions Trophy Matches in Dubai

The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced that India would be playing its matches in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai. The decision followed Pakistan's choice of the United Arab Emirates as a neutral venue due to the ongoing political tensions that prevented India from playing in Pakistan.

The announcement confirmed that India's Group A match against Pakistan, along with matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand, would now take place in Dubai. Additionally, if India qualifies for the final, that match, originally slated for Lahore on March 9, will also be relocated to Dubai. This move came after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC that they would not send a team to the tournament based on government advice. Since 2008, India has not toured Pakistan, and the last visit from Pakistan to India occurred during the 2023 50-over World Cup.

The ICC's statement indicated that the three group matches involving India and the first semi-final are set for Dubai, while Lahore will still host the second semi-final. The final decision regarding the venue will hinge on whether India qualifies, as both the semi-finals and the final will feature reserve days.

This tournament marks the first Champions Trophy since 2017, which saw Pakistan claim victory over India. The competition, featuring eight teams, will kick off in Karachi on February 19. The ICC emphasised that future matches between India and Pakistan in tournaments from 2024 to 2027 will also occur at neutral venues.