The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to return after an eight-year gap, bringing together the top eight ODI (One Day International) teams in the world. Organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the tournament will be held from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with matches taking place across Pakistan and the UAE.
This edition of the tournament holds special significance as it marks the return of a global ICC event to Pakistan, which last hosted a major ICC tournament in 1996. Cricket fans can expect thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and top-quality cricket as teams compete for the prestigious Champions Trophy title.
History of the ICC Champions Trophy
The ICC Champions Trophy was first introduced in 1998 as the ICC KnockOut and was later rebranded in 2002. Over the years, the tournament has become one of the most prestigious ICC events, second only to the ICC Cricket World Cup in terms of importance.
Some past winners of the tournament include:
1998 – South Africa (defeated West Indies)
2000 – New Zealand (defeated India)
2002 – Shared between India & Sri Lanka (final match washed out)
2004 – West Indies (defeated England)
2006 – Australia (defeated West Indies)
2009 – Australia (defeated New Zealand)
2013 – India (defeated England)
2017 – Pakistan (defeated India)
Pakistan won the last edition of the tournament in 2017, defeating India in a memorable final at The Oval in London.
Format and Teams for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will feature eight teams, divided into two groups of four. The tournament will follow a round-robin format in the group stage, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals, followed by the final.
Group A
- Pakistan (Hosts & Defending Champions)
- India
- New Zealand
- Bangladesh
Group B
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
- Afghanistan
Each team will play three matches in the group stage, and the top two from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.
Venues for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan and the UAE will jointly host the tournament, with matches scheduled across multiple venues.
Pakistan Venues:
- National Stadium, Karachi
- Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
UAE Venues:
- Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
The India vs. Pakistan match, the most anticipated game of the tournament, is set to be held in Dubai due to security concerns, ensuring a neutral and grand setting for the clash.
Full Match Schedule
February 19, 2025 – Pakistan vs. New Zealand (Karachi)
February 20, 2025 – India vs. Bangladesh (Lahore)
February 23, 2025 – India vs. Pakistan (Dubai)
March 9, 2025 – Final (Venue TBD)
The complete schedule will be available on the ICC’s official website.
Key Players to Watch
Several star cricketers will play a crucial role in this tournament.
Pakistan
Babar Azam – One of the best batsmen in the world.
Shaheen Afridi – Lethal left-arm pacer, known for early breakthroughs.
India
Rohit Sharma – Captain and experienced opening batsman.
Virat Kohli – India’s batting mainstay in big matches.
Australia
David Warner – Explosive opener with plenty of experience.
Pat Cummins – Top-class fast bowler and team leader.
England
Jos Buttler – Aggressive batsman and key wicketkeeper.
Jofra Archer – Fast bowler known for deadly pace.
Why This Tournament is Special
First ICC event in Pakistan since 1996 – A major milestone for the country.
India vs. Pakistan Rivalry – One of the biggest rivalries in cricket.
Top ODI Teams Competing – Only the best teams are part of this tournament.
Short & Exciting Format – Unlike the World Cup, this is a fast-paced tournament with high stakes from the start.
How to Watch ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Fans can watch the tournament live through official broadcasters:
India – Disney+ Hotstar, Star Sports
Pakistan – PTV Sports, Ten Sports
UK – Sky Sports
Australia – Amazon Prime
USA & Canada – Willow TV
For fans in other countries, matches will be streamed on ICC.tv.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be one of the most thrilling cricket tournaments of the year. With top teams, intense rivalries, and exciting venues, cricket fans worldwide are eagerly waiting for the action to begin.
With Pakistan hosting after decades, and with India and Pakistan playing on neutral UAE ground, this tournament will be filled with high drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments.
Get ready for an epic cricketing showdown!