The cricketing world is abuzz with speculation about the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025, and all eyes are on the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash. Reports suggest the high-octane encounter could take place on February 23 at a neutral venue. Here’s everything you need to know about the tournament’s likely schedule and India’s potential matchups.
India’s Champions Trophy Schedule
According to sources, India’s first match in the tournament is likely to be against Bangladesh on February 22, a day after the opening game between Pakistan and New Zealand. Following this, cricket fans can gear up for the electrifying India-Pakistan showdown, expected on February 23.
If reports are accurate, India’s next group-stage match will be against New Zealand on March 2.
Tournament Format and Groups
The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature eight teams, divided into two groups. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals. Here’s how the groups are shaping up:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Australia, South Africa, Afghanistan, England
The competition kicks off in Pakistan, with matches scheduled in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. However, due to security concerns, India will not travel to Pakistan. Instead, the Indian team’s matches will be played at a neutral venue, yet to be finalized.
Why India Won’t Play in Pakistan
India has refused to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, citing security concerns. Indian players haven’t competed on Pakistani soil since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which claimed 150 lives. The last bilateral series between the two nations was held in 2012.
To address this, the ICC has decided that all India-Pakistan matches during the 2024–2027 cycle will be played at neutral venues, as per the host nation’s proposal.
What’s at Stake?
The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most celebrated and fiercely contested in cricket. Fans from both nations eagerly await these encounters, and the Champions Trophy clash promises to be no different. With both teams in fine form, the February 23 match could be a thrilling spectacle.
A Tournament to Watch
With the tournament returning to the hybrid model and India-Pakistan matches on neutral ground, the Champions Trophy 2025 is shaping up to be a historic event. Whether you’re cheering for Team India or just love the drama of high-stakes cricket, this one’s a must-watch.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.