Cricket fans, brace yourselves! The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to make a grand return to the international stage after an eight-year hiatus. Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, the tournament promises a whirlwind of excitement as it takes place in Pakistan and the UAE, marking a milestone moment for both nations.
With 15 electrifying matches featuring the world’s top eight cricketing teams, this year’s Champions Trophy is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of cricket. Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi will host matches in Pakistan, while Dubai has been chosen as the neutral venue, further strengthening its reputation as a hub for international cricket.
The Lineup
This edition of the Champions Trophy boasts a thrilling lineup:
- Group A: Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and hosts Pakistan
- Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa
From classic rivalries to exciting new matchups, every game will be crucial in the battle to claim the prestigious Champions Trophy white jackets.
Key Fixtures
The action kicks off on February 19, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in Karachi. Some of the most anticipated clashes include:
- India vs. Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai
- Australia vs. England, one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries, on February 22 in Lahore
- The ever-iconic Pakistan vs. India showdown on February 23 in Dubai
The tournament culminates in two high-stakes semi-finals on March 4 and 5, followed by the grand finale on March 9. The final is set to take place in Lahore unless India qualifies, in which case it will move to Dubai.
A Historic Milestone for Pakistan
For Pakistan, this tournament is more than just cricket; it’s history in the making. As the host of a major ICC event for the first time since 1996, the country is ready to showcase its passion for the sport and its unparalleled hospitality.
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, expressed pride in this achievement:
“Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, demonstrating our commitment to world-class cricket. We’re thrilled to welcome the global cricket community and ensure a memorable experience for everyone.”
The ICC Perspective
Jay Shah, ICC Chair, highlighted the importance of the tournament’s revival:
“The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 is a celebration of cricket’s finest. With matches in Pakistan and the UAE, this event bridges heritage and modernity, offering fans around the globe 19 days of unmissable cricket action.”
Champions Trophy Legacy
Since its debut as the ICC KnockOut Trophy in 1998, the Champions Trophy has carved a special place in cricket history. Australia and India lead the tally with two wins each, while other past winners include South Africa, New Zealand, West Indies, and Pakistan—the 2017 defending champions.
Schedule
ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 schedule
19 Feb – Pakistan v New Zealand, National Stadium, Karachi
20 Feb – Bangladesh v India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
21 Feb – Afghanistan v South Africa, National 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 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
All matches start at 14h00 Pakistan Standard Time
Semi-final 1 will involve India if they qualify
Semi-final 2 will involve Pakistan if they qualify
If India qualify for the final it will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
