The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, marking an exciting return of the prestigious tournament to the country. Featuring the top eight One Day International (ODI) teams—Pakistan, Australia, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh, South Africa, Afghanistan, and England—the event promises to showcase high-caliber cricket. The tournament will kick off with an exhilarating opening match between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand, setting the tone for the weeks of competition ahead.
Matches will be hosted across three major cricketing hubs: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, each known for its passionate fanbase and iconic stadiums. For the first time in over a decade, Pakistani fans will experience the thrill of witnessing world-class international cricket on home soil, with teams battling for the coveted ICC Champions Trophy (CT) title. Beyond the sporting action, the tournament is expected to boost Pakistan’s profile as a safe and vibrant destination for international sporting events, showcasing the nation’s ability to host global competitions with top-tier facilities. This event will not only be a sporting spectacle but also a celebration of Pakistan’s growing role in the international cricket landscape. Fans can look forward to intense rivalries, memorable moments, and thrilling matches as the world’s best teams compete for glory.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
The ICC decided to cancel the Champions Trophy after the 2017 edition, marking what many thought was the end of the prestigious tournament. However, in a thrilling turn of events, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced in 2021 that the Champions Trophy will make a highly anticipated return in 2025. This edition will feature the top eight teams in the men’s One Day International (ODI) rankings, promising a fiercely competitive tournament.
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025. This marks a historic moment for Pakistan, as it will be the first time the country hosts a major international cricket tournament solely on its own. The last major global cricket event held in Pakistan was the 1996 Cricket World Cup, which the country co-hosted alongside Sri Lanka and India. Pakistan’s cricket fans are especially excited, as their national team is the defending champion, having claimed the title in 2017.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already released the tournament schedule and groupings, sparking anticipation and preparation. With iconic venues like Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Stadium expected to host matches, Pakistan is gearing up to showcase its ability to deliver a world-class event. For a country where cricket is a passion, the return of the Champions Trophy is seen as both a sporting and cultural triumph. Security preparations and infrastructure upgrades are also underway to ensure the event goes smoothly and leaves a lasting legacy for Pakistan’s cricketing future.
Teams did not Qualify for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
As the host nation, Pakistan automatically secured its spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The remaining seven teams earned their places based on their performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup, with only the top eight teams making the cut for this prestigious tournament. India was the first to qualify, showcasing their consistency throughout the tournament, followed by powerhouse teams such as Australia and New Zealand, who also secured their spots with strong performances.
Unfortunately, Sri Lanka narrowly missed out on qualification after finishing ninth in the World Cup standings. This result dashed their hopes of competing in the Champions Trophy. England, despite a relatively underwhelming World Cup campaign, managed to secure the final spot for the 2025 tournament, capitalizing on key wins that allowed them to stay within the top eight.
A standout feature of the upcoming tournament is Afghanistan, making its Champions Trophy debut. Their impressive performance in the 2023 World Cup, where they demonstrated both resilience and skill, earned them a well-deserved spot in the tournament. This represents a significant achievement for the emerging cricket nation.
However, several notable teams, including the West Indies, Scotland, Zimbabwe, and Ireland, will not be participating in the 2025 edition. These teams failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup, effectively excluding them from the Champions Trophy as well. The absence of historically strong teams like the West Indies marks a major shift in the competitive landscape, with emerging teams stepping up and creating new dynamics in global cricket. This absence highlights a transitional phase for many of these traditional cricketing nations, as newer teams rise to prominence.
Teams Qualified for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be hosted by Pakistan, a nation where cricket is not just a sport but a deep-rooted passion. Fans across the country are eagerly awaiting the tournament, which will feature seven of the top cricketing nations from around the globe. These teams will compete for one of the most coveted titles in One Day International (ODI) cricket, promising exciting contests and high-stakes action.
For Afghanistan, this tournament will mark their debut in the ICC Champions Trophy, a monumental moment in the nation’s cricketing history. Known for their fierce spin bowling and aggressive batting style, Afghanistan has rapidly gained respect on the international stage. Their ability to upset established teams makes them a dangerous side capable of springing surprises against even the biggest names in world cricket.
Australia, the reigning ODI World Cup champions, will enter the competition brimming with confidence. Their blend of seasoned veterans and rising young stars ensures they remain one of the toughest teams to beat. Australia’s winning mentality and tactical prowess will make them a strong favorite as they aim to add another prestigious title to their already impressive collection.
Bangladesh, with a passionate fan base backing them, will be determined to leave their mark on the tournament. Over the past few years, they have developed into a team capable of taking on the best in the world, and they will see this competition as a chance to demonstrate their progress on the global stage. Their recent victories against higher-ranked teams will give them hope for a strong campaign.
England, the 2019 ODI World Cup champions, will have their eyes set on reclaiming the Champions Trophy. With a lineup renowned for explosive batting and a sharp bowling attack, they will be one of the most dangerous teams to face. England’s aggressive approach to the game has made them formidable opponents, and their hunger for victory will only fuel their ambitions.
India, one of the powerhouses in world cricket, will aim for their third ICC Champions Trophy title. Their formidable batting lineup, coupled with world-class spinners, makes them one of the most well-rounded teams in the tournament. With the backing of millions of passionate fans from around the globe, India will enter the competition as one of the most supported and feared teams.
New Zealand, often flying under the radar, has consistently punched above their weight in ICC tournaments. Known for their disciplined approach and strong team dynamics, the Kiwis are never to be underestimated. They have the potential to take on any side and will quietly carry the confidence of a team that has regularly exceeded expectations on the big stage.
South Africa, a team with undeniable talent but a history of falling short in major tournaments, will be aiming to finally shake off their “chokers” tag. With a balanced squad that includes some of the most skilled players in the world, they will be eager to break through and claim their first major ICC title. South Africa’s determination and potential could make them one of the dark horses in this year’s competition.
Each of these teams brings its unique strengths to the table, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating and unpredictable tournament. With fierce competition, high-profile matchups, and the possibility of upsets, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated cricket events in recent memory. Fans can expect nothing less than world-class cricket and unforgettable moments throughout the competition.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Groups
The teams that qualified for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 earned their spots based on their performance in the One Day International (ODI) rankings. The top eight teams that will be competing in this prestigious event include:
- Pakistan
- Australia
- India
- New Zealand
- Bangladesh
- South Africa
- Afghanistan
- England
The tournament is set to follow a traditional structure, starting with an intense round of group stage matches. This will be followed by the high-stakes semi-finals, leading to the grand final, where the ultimate winner will be crowned. The Pakistan Cricket Board has already confirmed the groupings for the tournament, sparking excitement among fans. One of the most anticipated features of this year’s event is the inclusion of India and Pakistan in the same group, reigniting their long-standing and heated rivalry on the global stage. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eager to witness this face-off, as both teams bring unique strengths and rich cricketing histories to the table.
In addition to this, the Champions Trophy 2025 is being seen as a proving ground for some of the younger players, who are expected to shine alongside established stars. The tournament is set to capture the imagination of cricket fans across the globe, promising thrilling matches, nail-biting finishes, and unforgettable moments that will go down in cricketing history.
Here are the groups for the tournament:
Group A:
- India
- Bangladesh
- Pakistan
- New Zealand
Group B:
- Australia
- Afghanistan
- England
- South Africa
The competition will begin with an intense round of group-stage matches, where each team will battle against every other team in their respective groups. This stage is crucial as teams will need to accumulate points to secure their place in the next round. The top-performing teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, setting the stage for high-stakes encounters that will determine who makes it to the ultimate showdown. One of the most anticipated matches of the tournament is the India-Pakistan clash, a rivalry that never fails to captivate cricket fans worldwide. The historic rivalry between these two cricket giants is expected to be a thrilling spectacle, packed with high-quality play, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments. Fans are eager to witness the exhilarating contests as the teams push themselves to the limit, all with one goal in mind: lifting the coveted ICC Champions Trophy.
In addition to the India-Pakistan rivalry, several other key matchups could prove pivotal in determining the finalists. Each team will bring its unique strategies, adapting to varying pitch conditions, weather, and pressure. Star players from around the globe will showcase their skills, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tournament. Whether it’s a blistering batting display or a game-changing bowling performance, every moment counts in this race for the prestigious title.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule and Venue
The official schedule for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan, has been unveiled. This highly anticipated tournament will feature matches at three major cricket venues: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. The opening match is scheduled for February 19, 2025, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi, marking the start of an exciting international competition. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the return of this prestigious event, which brings together the top cricketing nations to battle for glory.
The Champions Trophy, known for its intense competition, will showcase 15 matches over the course of several weeks, culminating in the final, which is scheduled to take place in Lahore. The three host cities are renowned for their passionate cricket fanbases, ensuring electric atmospheres throughout the tournament. Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, offers a world-class venue with a history of hosting significant cricket events. Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan, boasts the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, known for its rich cricketing legacy. Rawalpindi, another crucial host, promises thrilling encounters with its dynamic pitch conditions.
Here’s a closer look at the complete ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule:
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 19 February 2025 | New Zealand vs Pakistan | Karachi |
| 20 February 2025 | Bangladesh vs India | Lahore |
| 21 February 2025 | Afghanistan vs South Africa | Karachi |
| 22 February 2025 | Australia vs England | Lahore |
| 23 February 2025 | New Zealand vs India | Rawalpindi |
| 24 February 2025 | Pakistan vs Bangladesh | Lahore |
| 25 February 2025 | Afghanistan vs England | Lahore |
| 26 February 2025 | Australia vs South Africa | Rawalpindi |
| 27 February 2025 | Bangladesh vs New Zealand | Lahore |
| 28 February 2025 | Afghanistan vs Australia | Rawalpindi |
| 1 March 2025 | Pakistan vs India | Lahore |
| 2 March 2025 | South Africa vs England | Rawalpindi |
| 5 March 2025 | 1st Semi-final | Karachi |
| 6 March 2025 | 2nd Semi-final | Rawalpindi |
| 9 March 2025 | Final | Lahore |
The group-stage matches will culminate in the semi-finals and the highly anticipated final. Among the most awaited contests is the India vs. Pakistan showdown, set for March 1, 2025, in Lahore—a match that is sure to captivate fans globally due to the intense rivalry between the two cricketing giants. Following this, the semi-finals are slated to take place on March 5 and 6, 2025, at the historic cricket grounds of Karachi and Rawalpindi. The tournament will conclude with the final on March 9, 2025, at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
This ICC Champions Trophy promises a series of electrifying matches across Pakistan’s legendary venues, offering fans a unique blend of competitive cricket and unforgettable atmospheres. As the world’s top teams compete for the coveted title, every match will carry immense significance, with players striving to etch their names in the annals of cricket history. Fans across the globe are gearing up for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling cricket tournaments, with passionate crowds, nail-biting finishes, and world-class performances. Pakistan’s vibrant cricket culture will be on full display, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
Will India Participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan?
With the ongoing strained relations between India and Pakistan, speculation continues to grow regarding whether India will travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India has not participated in any cricket tournaments hosted in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, and the political tensions between the two nations have made such tours increasingly uncertain. While cricket has historically served as a diplomatic tool to ease tensions between the two countries, the current political climate complicates any plans for an Indian team visit to Pakistan.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed concerns over the security situation in Pakistan and the prevailing political tensions. BCCI President Rajeev Shukla emphasized that any decision regarding India’s participation would depend heavily on approval from the Indian central government. The BCCI has maintained that it will adhere to the government’s directives in matters involving international tours, especially to Pakistan, where security remains a key issue.
Recent reports indicate that India is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Instead, the BCCI plans to request the International Cricket Council (ICC) to shift India’s matches to a neutral venue, possibly Sri Lanka or the UAE. This potential relocation of India’s games would mirror previous instances when major tournaments were moved out of Pakistan due to India’s reluctance to play there. Notably, during the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy, similar security concerns led to a venue change from Pakistan to South Africa.
Though the BCCI has yet to formally ask the ICC to change venues, this possibility remains under serious consideration. If the ICC agrees, it would add another chapter to the already complex history of cricket diplomacy between India and Pakistan. Such a decision would likely fuel ongoing discussions about the future of cricketing ties between the two nations.
As for the Indian squad, Rohit Sharma, fresh from leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup, is expected to captain the team in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Despite retiring from the T20 format, Sharma continues to be a key figure in India’s ODI and Test teams. Alongside him, other senior players like Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja are anticipated to feature, forming the backbone of India’s lineup for the prestigious tournament. The squad is likely to include a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, further strengthening India’s bid to reclaim the title.