The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is back after an eight-year hiatus, starting on 19 February 2025. This 19-day cricketing extravaganza features 15 thrilling matches, including intense rivalries and historic showdowns. Here are five unmissable matches that promise to light up the tournament:
Pakistan vs India: The Arch-Rivals Clash (23 February)
The cricketing world will be glued to screens as Pakistan takes on India in Dubai on 23 February. This rivalry always delivers high-octane action.
- Historical Edge: Pakistan holds a slight advantage in Champions Trophy history, leading 3-2. Their iconic win in the 2017 final remains a cherished moment.
- India’s Recent Form: India boasts a formidable lineup, with several players from their unbeaten 2023 ICC World Cup run expected to shine.
- Key Players: Watch out for Jasprit Bumrah, whose fiery spells often dictate India’s dominance in high-pressure games.
This match symbolizes more than cricket, blending skill, strategy, and passion.
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
- Expect Drama: Pakistan aims to break their recent two-win streak against India across formats.
Watch Jasprit Bumrah’s special spell that led India to a win over Pakistan | T20WC 2024
Australia vs South Africa: Semi-Final Rematch (25 February)
Two cricketing giants will lock horns in Rawalpindi, revisiting their epic 2023 World Cup semi-final battle.
- Tense History: South Africa narrowly lost by three wickets in a nail-biter during the last clash.
- Big Performers: With explosive batters and elite spinners, both sides are primed for sub-continent conditions.
- South Africa’s Motivation: Despite dominating the group stages in 2023, South Africa fell short in the semis. They’ll seek redemption.
This face-off promises fireworks, highlighting tactical depth and power hitting.
- Watch For: Australia’s experience versus South Africa’s hunger.
- Venue: Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi.
When Australia overcame South Africa in a thrilling semi-final | CWC23
Afghanistan vs Australia: Underdogs Aim High (28 February)
Lahore hosts an intriguing encounter as Afghanistan challenges the mighty Australians.
- Historic Upset Potential: Afghanistan stunned Australia in the 2024 T20 World Cup, securing their first major win against them.
- Key Player Spotlight: Led by Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s spinners will test Australia in spin-friendly conditions.
- Past Heroics: Glenn Maxwell’s double century in the 2023 World Cup remains etched in memory. Can Afghanistan counter his brilliance this time?
This match is a test of resilience and skill for both teams.
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
- Under the Spotlight: Rashid Khan’s wizardry versus Australia’s batting depth.
Glenn Maxwell’s outrageous knock overcomes Afghanistan | CWC23
South Africa vs England: A Battle of Strategies (1 March)
South Africa and England will meet in Karachi, with both teams eager to showcase their prowess in crunch matches.
- England’s Strength: Known for their aggressive batting, England aims to impose big totals.
- South Africa’s Bowling Power: The Proteas counter with an arsenal of versatile bowlers capable of attacking and containing.
- Unpredictable Form: Both teams have struggled since the 2023 World Cup, but the Champions Trophy offers a fresh start.
Expect a close contest filled with thrilling moments.
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi.
- Players to Watch: England’s top-order batsmen against South Africa’s bowlers.
New Zealand vs India: A Semi-Final Grudge Match (2 March)
The final group-stage game in Dubai brings India and New Zealand face-to-face, revisiting their storied rivalry.
- Breaking Stereotypes: India broke their 20-year ICC curse against New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup, beating them twice.
- New Zealand’s Comeback: The Black Caps recently humbled India in a historic 3-0 Test series win, ending a 12-year streak.
- Stars to Shine: Mohammed Shami spearheads India’s bowling, while New Zealand banks on their collective resilience.
This match might decide semi-final spots, adding extra stakes.
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
- Anticipate Fireworks: Both teams are eager to assert supremacy.
Mohammed Shami undoes New Zealand in Mumbai | CWC23
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
