ICC Champions Trophy

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to captivate cricket enthusiasts worldwide from February 19 to March 9, 2025. This prestigious One Day International (ODI) tournament returns after an eight-year hiatus, bringing together the top eight cricketing nations in a battle for supremacy.

Tournament Overview

Hosted primarily by Pakistan, with select matches in Dubai due to geopolitical considerations, the tournament features two groups:

• Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
• Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, Afghanistan

Each team will face the others in their group once, with the top two from each group advancing to the semifinals.

Match Schedule

The action-packed schedule comprises 15 matches over 19 days. Here are some key fixtures:

• February 19: Pakistan vs. New Zealand at National Stadium, Karachi
• February 20: Bangladesh vs. India at Dubai International Stadium
• February 21: Afghanistan vs. South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
• February 22: Australia vs. England at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
• February 23: India vs. Pakistan at Dubai International Stadium

The semifinals are slated for March 4 in Dubai and March 5 in Lahore, with the grand finale on March 9 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Notably, if India reaches the final, it will be held in Dubai due to existing political tensions.

Venues

Matches will be hosted across four iconic stadiums:

• National Stadium, Karachi: Capacity of 34,238; hosting 3 matches.
• Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore: Capacity of 35,000; hosting 4 matches, including the second semifinal and the final.
• Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium: Capacity of 15,000; hosting 3 matches.
• Dubai International Cricket Stadium: Capacity of 30,000; hosting 4 matches, including the first semifinal.

Player Highlights

The tournament will showcase a plethora of cricketing talent:

• Pakistan: Led by captain Babar Azam, the defending champions aim to leverage home advantage.
• India: Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, with rising star Shubman Gill expected to make significant contributions. citeturn0news20
• Australia: Despite injuries to key players like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, stand-in captain Steve Smith brings experience to the squad. citeturn0news19
• England: Jos Buttler leads a team looking to overcome recent form challenges.
• South Africa: A balanced squad eager to make their mark.
• New Zealand: Known for their consistency in ICC tournaments.
• Bangladesh: A team with potential to cause upsets.
• Afghanistan: Making their tournament debut, with players like Rashid Khan in their ranks.

Broadcast and Streaming

Cricket fans can catch all the live action through official ICC broadcast partners and streaming services. Specific details regarding broadcasting rights and streaming platforms will be announced closer to the tournament dates.

Stay tuned for more updates as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 unfolds, promising thrilling matches and unforgettable moments in cricket history.