The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently approved the hybrid model proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Reports now suggest that a neutral venue for the event has been chosen.
According to reports citing sources, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been chosen as the neutral venue for the tournament. It is expected that India’s matches, including their much-anticipated clash with Pakistan, will be held in the UAE.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, promising exciting encounters among the top cricketing nations. Pakistan will host the tournament, featuring eight teams divided into two groups. Matches are planned to take place at venues in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
On December 19, reports surfaced that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had approved a hybrid model, allowing India to play its ICC Champions Trophy 2025 matches at neutral venues.
Here are the key highlights of the tentative schedule:
- Opening Match: Pakistan vs. New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
- High-Profile Clash: Pakistan vs. India on February 23 at a neutral venue.
- Group Stage Match: Pakistan vs. Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.
- Exciting Contest: Australia vs. England on February 22 in Lahore.
- Another Group Stage Match: Afghanistan vs. England on February 26 in Lahore.
- Final Group Game: Afghanistan vs. Australia on February 28 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
A Cricinfo report revealed that neutral venues would also be utilized for Pakistan’s matches in ICC tournaments hosted by India through 2027.
The report stated, “During the 2024-2027 event cycle, all matches involving India in tournaments hosted by Pakistan will be played at neutral venues, and in return, all matches involving Pakistan in tournaments hosted by India will also be played at neutral venues.”
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Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
This arrangement covers the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, and the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The resolution is expected to undergo an ICC board vote.
ICC assures Pak of extra event
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) provided important updates during a Governing Board meeting held yesterday in Islamabad under the leadership of Mohsin Naqvi.
The meeting focused on the latest developments regarding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Sources indicate that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi disclosed that agreements with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have been finalized, with only formal documentation remaining. The finalized schedule for the Champions Trophy is anticipated to be announced within the next day or two.
