The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks a significant return to the international cricket calendar after an eight-year hiatus. Scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025, this prestigious One Day International (ODI) tournament brings together the top eight cricketing nations in a battle for supremacy. Co-hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the tournament promises high-octane matches, historic rivalries, and standout individual performances.
Tournament Overview
The 2025 edition is the ninth installment of the ICC Champions Trophy, often dubbed the “Mini World Cup” due to its compact format and elite participation. The tournament features 15 matches over 19 days, with teams divided into two groups:
Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, Afghanistan
Each team will play three group-stage matches, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The final is slated for March 9, 2025.
Hosting Venues
Pakistan is set to host its first major ICC tournament since the 1996 Cricket World Cup. Matches will be held across three Pakistani cities:
Karachi: National Stadium
Lahore: Gaddafi Stadium
Rawalpindi: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Due to political tensions and security concerns, India’s matches will be played at a neutral venue in Dubai, UAE. The Dubai International Cricket Stadium will host all fixtures involving the Indian team, including the high-profile clash against Pakistan. If India qualifies for the final, it will also be held in Dubai; otherwise, Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will be the venue. (icc)
Complete Match Schedule
Below is the detailed schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
Group Stage Matches:
February 19: Pakistan vs. New Zealand – National Stadium, Karachi
February 20: Bangladesh vs. India – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
February 21: Afghanistan vs. South Africa – National Stadium, Karachi
February 22: Australia vs. England – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
February 23: Pakistan vs. India – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
February 24: Bangladesh vs. New Zealand – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
February 25: Australia vs. South Africa – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
February 26: Afghanistan vs. England – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
February 27: Pakistan vs. Bangladesh – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
February 28: Afghanistan vs. Australia – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
March 1: South Africa vs. England – National Stadium, Karachi
March 2: New Zealand vs. India – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Knockout Stage:
March 4: Semi-final 1 – Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai*
March 5: Semi-final 2 – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore**
March 9: Final – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore***
*Note: Semi-final 1 will feature India if they qualify.
**Note: Semi-final 2 will feature Pakistan if they qualify.
***Note: If India qualifies for the final, it will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. (icc)
Must-Watch Matches
Several fixtures in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 stand out due to historic rivalries and potential impact on the tournament’s progression:
1. Pakistan vs India (February 23, Dubai)
Arguably the most anticipated match of the tournament, the Pakistan-India clash transcends cricket, embodying a fierce rivalry steeped in history. In Champions Trophy history, Pakistan leads with a 3-2 record over India, including a memorable victory in the 2017 final. Both teams will be eager to assert dominance, making this encounter a must-watch. (Champions Trophy 2025)
2. Australia vs England (February 22, Lahore)
The Ashes rivalry extends beyond Test cricket, and this ODI face-off promises high-intensity action. Both teams have a rich history and a point to prove, especially in subcontinental conditions that add an extra layer of challenge. (Champions Trophy 2025)
3. Afghanistan vs Australia (February 28, Lahore)
Afghanistan’s cricketing rise has been meteoric, and their previous encounters with Australia have been thrilling. Notably, Afghanistan secured a historic T20 victory over Australia in 2024, showcasing their potential to upset traditional powerhouses. This match could be a defining moment for Afghanistan in ODI cricket. (Champions Trophy 2025)
4. South Africa vs England (March 1, Karachi)
Both teams possess formidable line-ups and have had intense battles in ICC tournaments. This match is crucial for semi-final aspirations, and the Karachi pitch could offer an exciting contest between bat and ball.
Player Clashes to Watch
The Champions Trophy is not just about team rivalries; individual matchups often define the tournament. Here are some of the key player battles to watch:
1. Virat Kohli vs Shaheen Afridi
Kohli’s masterclass batting versus Afridi’s lethal new-ball swing will be a key battle in the India-Pakistan showdown. Afridi dismissed Kohli early in their last World Cup encounter, but can he repeat his heroics?
2. Steve Smith vs Adil Rashid
Steve Smith has historically struggled against Adil Rashid’s leg-spin, particularly in ODIs. Rashid has dismissed Smith multiple times, often exposing his vulnerability to spin. Their upcoming clashes in any format will be an intriguing battle between Smith’s batting prowess and Rashid’s bowling skills.
3. Rashid Khan vs Glenn Maxwell
Glenn Maxwell’s batting and Rashid Khan’s bowling have clashed in various high-stakes cricket matches. Maxwell’s aggressive batting style has sometimes been countered by Rashid’s spin, making their encounters exciting. Their head-to-head battles are always a highlight in any cricket tournament they participate in.
4. Jos Buttler vs Kagiso Rabada
England’s aggressive wicketkeeper-batter against South Africa’s pace ace is a mouthwatering clash. Buttler’s ability to take on fast bowlers will be tested against Rabada’s fiery spells.
With intense rivalries, world-class cricketers, and high-stakes cricket, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to captivate both die-hard fans and new enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re watching your first major cricket tournament or making a return after years, this edition promises moments that will be etched in cricketing history. So, mark your calendars, pick your favorites, and get ready for a cricketing spectacle like no other!
