Hosts Pakistan will kick off the 2025 Champions Trophy with a clash against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, the ICC confirmed on Tuesday (December 24) while announcing the fixtures.
India’s group-stage matches and one semi-final will be held in Dubai, with the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan set for February 23.
Bangladesh completes Group A alongside India, New Zealand, and defending champions Pakistan.
Group B features Afghanistan, South Africa, Australia, and England.
The opening match of Group B will see Afghanistan, debutants in the tournament, face inaugural champions South Africa on February 21 in Karachi.
The marquee encounter between Australia and England will take place on February 22 in Lahore.
Rawalpindi will also host games, with two matches featuring Bangladesh, while the second semi-final and final are scheduled for Lahore.
However, if India reaches the final, it will be played in Dubai on March 9.
Both semi-finals and the final will have reserve days, and all 15 matches will be day-night fixtures, starting at 14:00 Pakistan Standard Time.
The Champions Trophy returns after an eight-year hiatus and faced several challenges after the BCCI confirmed their refusal to play in Pakistan.
The prolonged uncertainty was resolved on December 19 when the ICC approved neutral venues for India-Pakistan games at global events for the next three years.
Following this, the PCB chose the UAE as a neutral venue over Sri Lanka.
“We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport,” said PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution.
Their efforts have been invaluable in promoting the interests of international cricket.
“Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, highlighting our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and showcasing our capabilities as a premier event organizer.
We are dedicated to ensuring that this tournament will be a memorable experience for players, officials, and fans alike.”
Groups:
| GROUP A | GROUP B |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | Afghanistan |
| India | South Africa |
| Bangladesh | Australia |
| New Zealand | England |
Schedule:
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| February 19 | Pakistan vs New Zealand | Karachi |
| February 20 | Bangladesh vs India | Dubai |
| February 21 | Afghanistan vs South Africa | Karachi |
| February 22 | Australia vs England | Lahore |
| February 23 | Pakistan vs India | Dubai |
| February 24 | Bangladesh vs New Zealand | Rawalpindi |
| February 25 | Australia vs South Africa | Rawalpindi |
| February 26 | Afghanistan vs England | Lahore |
| February 27 | Pakistan vs Bangladesh | Rawalpindi |
| February 28 | Afghanistan vs Australia | Lahore |
| March 1 | South Africa vs England | Karachi |
| March 2 | New Zealand vs India | Dubai |
| March 4 | Semi-final 1 | Dubai |
| March 5 | Semi-final 2 | Lahore |
| March 9 | Final | Lahore* |
* Final will be held in Dubai in case India qualify
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