The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy has been scheduled for February 23. This much-awaited encounter will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, marking the second group-stage match for both teams.
- The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be held from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and UAE.
- India and Pakistan are part of Group A, alongside Bangladesh and New Zealand.
- The tournament opens with Pakistan vs New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
Group Stages: India and Pakistan Prepare for Battle
India will begin their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. Three days later, they will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a much-hyped match. The event brings together cricket’s fiercest competitors in a clash watched by millions.
The groupings for the tournament are:
- Group A: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand
- Group B: South Africa, Australia, England, Afghanistan
The teams were selected based on the 2023 ODI World Cup standings, which saw Sri Lanka fail to qualify after finishing outside the top eight.
Venues and Tournament Structure
The matches are divided across multiple venues, with Dubai hosting all of India’s games. Other matches are slated for Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. This strategic arrangement ensures smooth logistics and the inclusion of cricket-loving fans from across the host nations.
Semi-Finals and Finals
- The semi-finals will be played on March 4 and 5 in Dubai and Lahore, depending on team standings.
- The grand finale is set for March 9 in Lahore. However, should India qualify, the final venue will shift to Dubai, reflecting logistical adjustments.
India-Pakistan Rivalry Rekindled
The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is unparalleled in its intensity. Their encounters often dominate headlines and attract record-breaking viewership. Both teams bring rich cricketing legacies, making their matches a spectacle of skill and passion.
In the 2017 Champions Trophy final, Pakistan clinched a historic win over India, marking their first title in the tournament. India previously won the Champions Trophy in 2013 and were joint-winners with Sri Lanka in 2002.
Comments from ICC Chair Jay Shah
ICC chairman Jay Shah expressed excitement about the return of the Champions Trophy after an eight-year break. Speaking to the ICC, he 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. This thrilling competition, featuring eight teams, promises to deliver 15 matches of unmissable entertainment.”
He emphasized that hosting the tournament in Pakistan and the UAE reflects a blend of cricketing heritage and modern infrastructure, with Dubai serving as the ICC headquarters.
Champions Trophy: A Prestigious History
The ICC Champions Trophy, established in 1998, has seen remarkable moments:
- Australia: Two-time winners (2006, 2009)
- West Indies, South Africa, New Zealand: One title each
- India: Winners in 2013 and joint-winners in 2002
- Pakistan: Historic winners in 2017
The competition has evolved into a celebration of cricketing excellence, showcasing top talent from around the world.
What to Expect from the 2025 Edition
The upcoming Champions Trophy promises thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. For fans, it’s an opportunity to witness cricket at its finest, with the world’s top teams battling for supremacy.
Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await February 23, when India and Pakistan will reignite their legendary rivalry, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
