The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed on December 24 that Pakistan will host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Originally planned as sole hosts, Pakistan will now co-host with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to India’s security concerns about traveling across the border.
This marks Pakistan’s return as an ICC event host after 28 years, following their co-hosting of the 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. The tournament includes matches at three venues in Pakistan, with India playing its games, including potential knockouts, at the Dubai International Stadium.
The ICC also revealed the full schedule for the eight-team tournament, which runs from February 19 to March 9. Defending champions Pakistan are grouped with Bangladesh, New Zealand, and India in Group A. Group B consists of Australia, England, Afghanistan, and South Africa. The group stage will conclude on March 2, followed by semifinals on March 4 and 5. The final will take place on March 9, with India playing semifinals or final matches in Dubai. Other knockout fixtures will take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed the event as a “significant milestone” for Pakistan cricket. He expressed gratitude to the ICC for granting hosting rights and shared excitement about showcasing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality to the world.
The Champions Trophy will ignite passion among cricket fans and bring a major international event back to Pakistan.
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