Pakistan Prepares to Host ICC Champions Trophy After 28 Years

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, an eight-team tournament, is set to return to Pakistan after nearly three decades. Scheduled from February 19 to March 10, the matches will take place across three Pakistani venues—Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore—while Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS) will host at least four fixtures. 

The event will kick off with defending champions Pakistan facing New Zealand at Karachi's National Bank Stadium on February 19. Pakistan’s high-profile clash against India is slated for February 23 in Dubai, and their final group-stage game will be against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi. Group B features Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. 

The semi-finals are scheduled for March 4 in Dubai and March 5 in Lahore, both with reserve days. The final, planned for March 9, will be held either at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium or DICS, depending on the finalists. 

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed gratitude for the ICC’s support and emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to deliver a memorable tournament. He highlighted the event as a milestone for Pakistan cricket, showcasing the nation's organizational capabilities and renowned hospitality. 

White-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan shared his excitement about hosting the Champions Trophy, Pakistan’s first ICC event in 28 years. As defending champions, the team aims to meet fans’ expectations while providing a warm welcome to all participants. Rizwan also emphasised the importance of strong performances in front of the home crowd, underlining Pakistan’s passion for the sport.

ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 schedule (All matches to begin at 2 pm PKT)

19 Feb – Pakistan v New Zealand, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

20 Feb – Bangladesh v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

21 Feb – Afghanistan v South Africa, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

22 Feb – Australia v England, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

23 Feb – Pakistan v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

24 Feb - Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

25 Feb – Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

26 Feb – Afghanistan v England, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

27 Feb – Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

28 Feb – Afghanistan v Australia, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

1 Mar – South Africa v England, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

2 Mar – New Zealand v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

4 Mar – Semi-final 1, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai*

5 Mar – Semi-final 2, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore**

9 Mar – Final - Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore***

* 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