The International Cricket Council (ICC) officially announced the schedule for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 on Tuesday (December 24), following weeks of anticipation.
Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, the tournament will take place in Pakistan and the UAE, featuring 15 matches involving eight teams. This marks the competition’s return to the calendar after an eight-year hiatus and sees Pakistan hosting a global cricket event for the first time since 1996, with Dubai being the neutral venue for India matches.
The schedule announced by the ICC closely aligns with the one shared by RevSportz a few days earlier. The tournament opener will pit defending champions Pakistan against New Zealand in Karachi, while India begin their campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20.
All eyes will be on the high-octane clash between India and Pakistan, which will be played in Dubai. Other notable match-ups include Australia facing England in Lahore on February 22, followed by Afghanistan taking on England at the same venue on February 26.
Scheduled for March 4 in Dubai and March 5 in Lahore, the semi-finals promise an exciting lead-up to the finale. Lahore is set to host the final on March 9, but if India qualify, the match will be shifted to Dubai, where the champions will be awarded the iconic white jackets and the trophy. Reserve days have been allocated for both semi-finals and the final. India will play all three of their group-stage matches in Dubai.
The delay in the schedule announcement stemmed from prolonged discussions between India and Pakistan over hosting ICC events. A resolution was finally reached, with a landmark agreement for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The BCCI and PCB agreed on a hybrid model, under which India’s matches in the eight-team tournament will be held in Dubai, while Pakistan’s matches in events hosted by India will also take place at a neutral venue.
This approach is designed to ensure smooth conduct of tournaments while addressing the geopolitical challenges that have historically strained cricketing relations between the two Asian giants.
ICC Chair, Jay Shah said: “The ICC is delighted to release the schedule for the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, marking the tournament’s much-anticipated return since 2017. The thrilling competition, in which eight teams battle it out to claim the iconic white jackets, will provide fans with 15 matches of unmissable entertainment. This edition will take place in Pakistan and the UAE, and with Dubai also serving as the home of the ICC headquarters, it represents an opportunity to showcase the best of cricket with heritage and modernity. This Champions Trophy is truly poised to be an unmissable celebration of the World Cricket’s finest.”
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi said: “We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution. Their efforts have been invaluable in promoting the interests of international cricket. Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, highlighting our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and showcasing our capabilities as a premier event organizer. We are dedicated to ensuring that this tournament will be a memorable experience for players, officials, and fans alike. Pakistan is elated to welcome the world to the Champions Trophy, and we look forward to extending our renowned hospitality to all.”