India’s matches in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be played in Dubai, as confirmed by the International Cricket Council. This decision follows India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan, the official host nation, due to ongoing political tensions between the two countries. As a result, the United Arab Emirates has been chosen as a neutral venue for India’s fixtures.
The matches involving India in Group A, including their clash against the hosts, Pakistan, will take place in Dubai. India’s games against Bangladesh and New Zealand are also scheduled for the same venue. Furthermore, the final, originally planned to be held in Lahore on March 9, will be moved to Dubai if India qualifies for the match. This arrangement highlights the continued challenges in organizing bilateral cricket matches between the two nations, as India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, and Pakistan last visited India for the 2023 50-over World Cup.
The Champions Trophy, which returns after a hiatus since 2017, is set to begin on February 19 in Karachi, where Pakistan will face New Zealand in the tournament opener. Other group-stage matches will be held in Rawalpindi and Lahore. The semi-finals are divided between Lahore and Dubai, with reserve days allocated for both. The competition follows an eight-team, 50-over format and promises exciting matchups as teams vie for the prestigious title.
England, drawn in Group B, will face Afghanistan, Australia, and South Africa in what will serve as an early challenge for their new white-ball coach. England’s matches are scheduled across Lahore and Karachi, including a much-anticipated clash with Australia on February 22.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed satisfaction with the resolution, emphasizing that the agreement reflects the principles of equality and respect. The PCB acknowledged the efforts of the ICC and its members in reaching a mutually beneficial solution, which underscores the collaborative spirit of international cricket. The board also highlighted the significance of hosting an ICC event in Pakistan for the first time since the 1996 World Cup, co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka.
For Pakistan, this tournament is an opportunity to showcase its hospitality and passion for cricket. The country’s white-ball captain expressed optimism that fans would support not only the home team but also appreciate the performances of other participating teams. The PCB is hopeful that this event will serve as a stepping stone toward greater international cricket engagement in Pakistan.
The ICC has also announced that matches between India and Pakistan in ICC events will be held at neutral venues until at least 2027, reflecting the broader challenges in their cricketing relationship. Despite the political complexities, the Champions Trophy promises to deliver thrilling cricketing action, with fans eagerly awaiting marquee encounters and standout performances on the field.
