Pakistan is set to host the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy from February 19 to March 8, 2025, marking a significant milestone as the nation returns to hosting a major ICC event after a long hiatus. The tournament promises high-octane cricket, but its road to realization has been marred by challenges, particularly surrounding India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) eventually agreed on a hybrid model, accommodating India’s matches in the UAE while the rest of the tournament takes place in Pakistan. This arrangement delayed the schedule but ensured the participation of all teams, preserving the competitive spirit of the tournament.
The Champions Trophy kicks off with Pakistan facing New Zealand at Karachi’s National Stadium on February 19. The highly anticipated clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is slated for February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, ensuring a neutral venue for the encounter.
The schedule features gripping matches across multiple venues, including Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. Teams will vie for glory, with the group stage setting the stage for nail-biting semi-finals on March 4 and 5. Should India qualify for the final, the championship match will be shifted to Dubai from Lahore.
The hybrid model has drawn mixed reactions, with cricketing purists lamenting the logistical complications and political undertones, while others view it as a pragmatic solution to ensure the tournament’s success. For Pakistan, hosting the event is a matter of pride and an opportunity to showcase its cricketing infrastructure on the global stage.
The tournament will feature top teams, promising thrilling cricket action and a chance for fans to witness historic moments in one of cricket’s most coveted tournaments. As preparations intensify, Pakistan will look to balance logistics and security while delivering a memorable Champions Trophy.