PCB’s Initial Response to Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule: “Agreement Rooted In…”
The International Cricket Council, after much anticipation, on Tuesday produced the much-awaited schedule of the 2025 Champions Trophy. It marks another major milestone in the progression of international cricket. However, the tournament,
while adopting a hybrid hosting model, is set to kick-start on February 19, starting with Pakistan against New Zealand in Karachi.
This is a historic event for Pakistan, as it will be the first time they host a major ICC event since the 1996 World Cup. The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams, culminating in the final on March 9, which is set to take place in Lahore unless India reaches the final, in which case the venue will shift to Dubai.
Expressing pride over this achievement, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi underscored the importance of the event for Pakistan cricket. “We are happy that an agreement has been reached on equal terms and mutual respect, reflecting the collaborative spirit that defines our sport,” he said.
Naqvi also extended his gratitude to the ICC for entrusting Pakistan with co-hosting responsibilities alongside Dubai. “Hosting the Champions Trophy is a landmark moment for Pakistan. It underlines our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and our capability as a world-class event organizer. We eagerly look forward to welcoming the world and sharing Pakistan’s famed hospitality,” he added.
In hybrid hosting, most of the games will be played in Pakistan with games allocated to Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Each venue will host three group-stage matches. Meanwhile, all India’s games, starting from their opening match against Bangladesh on February 20, will be played in Dubai. Dubai will host India’s crucial game against Pakistan on February 23.
The Chairman of the ICC, Jay Shah, also welcomed the opportunity with open arms on his social media handle. “Very excited for the @ICC Men’s Champions Trophy to begin in February.”,
Semi-finals: 4th March, Dubai 5th March, Lahore Final reserve days are also scheduled at both the semi-finals and final. Should India make it to the final, the match shall be played at Dubai too. In case they do not make it, Lahore would play the championship match.
The Group B action will be witnessed on February 21 with Afghanistan facing South Africa in Karachi while India’s campaign begins against Bangladesh in Dubai. The hybrid model allows for fair distribution of games and still lets Pakistan demonstrate its cricketing infrastructure to the world.
