The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is set for February 23, 2025, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Due to ongoing political tensions between the two countries, the UAE has been selected as the neutral venue for this crucial encounter.
Official Confirmation from PCB
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that the UAE will serve as a secondary location for matches during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, in line with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) hybrid hosting model for the 2024–2027 cycle. This arrangement specifies that India-Pakistan matches will be hosted at neutral venues as needed.
India’s campaign will begin on February 20, 2025, in Dubai, when they take on Bangladesh. They will then face New Zealand on March 2, also in Dubai. Meanwhile, Pakistan, the defending champions, will start their journey on February 19, 2025, in Karachi against New Zealand. Karachi, known for its passionate cricket fans, will provide a vibrant atmosphere for the home side. Pakistan’s next match will be against Bangladesh on February 27, 2025, in Rawalpindi, which could be crucial in determining their path to the semifinals.
The tournament will feature eight teams
Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. Group matches for the second pool, featuring Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa, will be held across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. The semifinals are scheduled for March 4 and 5, 2025, and the final will take place on March 9, 2025, with a reserve day in place in case of weather disruptions.
In line with the ICC’s December 19 ruling, all India-Pakistan matches during ICC events in the 2024–2027 cycle will be hosted at neutral venues. PCB spokesperson Amir Mir confirmed the UAE’s involvement following discussions between PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and UAE minister Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, who heads the Emirates Cricket Board.
With the India-Pakistan clash set in the UAE, the 2025 Champions Trophy is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle for cricket fans worldwide.
