KARACHI: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule has been officially revealed, with the tournament set to commence on February 19. Karachi is poised to host the opening ceremony, and the first match will feature the host nation, Pakistan, facing off against New Zealand in what promises to be an exhilarating start to the event.

Pakistan’s second fixture is scheduled for February 24 in Rawalpindi, where they will take on Bangladesh. However, the most eagerly awaited encounter of the tournament will be the high-octane clash between Pakistan and India on March 1, to be played in Dubai. This match is expected to draw significant global attention and be one of the most thrilling moments of the Champions Trophy. India’s tournament campaign will kick off on February 20 when they meet Bangladesh, followed by a clash with New Zealand on February 23 in Dubai. Meanwhile, Lahore’s newly constructed Gaddafi Stadium will witness its first-ever international fixture on February 22, when Australia squares off against England in another marquee encounter. Other exciting fixtures in the tournament include Afghanistan’s match against England on February 25 and the Australia-South Africa contest on February 26 in Rawalpindi.

Lahore will then host the Bangladesh-New Zealand game on February 27, and Afghanistan will play against Australia on February 28 in Rawalpindi. The final group-stage encounter will take place on March 2 in Rawalpindi, where South Africa will meet England in a crucial match for the knockout spots. The Champions Trophy will culminate with the semi-finals and final. The first semi-final is set for March 5, with the second semi-final scheduled for March 6. The grand finale of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is slated for March 9. According to the tentative schedule, both semi-finals are expected to be held in Pakistan. However, if India reaches the final stages, these matches may be relocated to Dubai.

In the event that India does not make it to the semi-finals, the final will remain in Lahore, ensuring the tournament finishes with a dramatic climax on Pakistani soil. This edition of the ICC Champions Trophy promises a series of thrilling encounters, highlighted by the much-anticipated Pakistan-India clash, and the debut of the newly revamped Gaddafi Stadium as an international cricket venue. Fans are eagerly awaiting what is expected to be a spectacular tournament filled with high-stakes action.