The arch-rivals Pakistan and India are set to face off in a highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match on March 1 at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, according to the proposed schedule. This exciting news comes from Indian media reports citing an ICC Board member.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly submitted the schedule for the Champions Trophy to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The schedule has been approved by all participating countries except India.
Venues and Groups of Champions Trophy
According to an ICC Board member, “The PCB has submitted the draft of the 15-match ICC Champions Trophy. Seven games in Lahore, three in Karachi, and five in Rawalpindi.”
Interestingly, all of India’s matches are scheduled to be played in Lahore due to security reasons.
The tournament’s host, Pakistan, is grouped with India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand in Group A. While, Group B will feature England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan.
The action kicks off in Karachi on February 19 and concludes with the final in Lahore on March 9. In case of bad weather, March 10 is reserved as an alternate date for the final.
Karachi and Rawalpindi will each host a semifinal. However, if India makes it to the semifinals, their match will be shifted to Lahore due to the city’s proximity to India.
Will India Travel to Pakistan?
One of the biggest questions is whether India will be allowed to travel to Pakistan. For years, political tensions have prevented India’s national cricket team from touring Pakistan.
Last year’s Asia Cup saw India’s refusal to travel, resulting in a hybrid model, with Sri Lanka co-hosting all India games and the final.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stated that any decision about traveling to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy will be made after their government’s approval.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope. Pakistan traveled to India in 2023 for the ODI World Cup after receiving government clearance, suggesting that India might do the same for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
It’s worth noting that India last played in Pakistan in 2008, losing the Asia Cup final by 100 runs to Sri Lanka in Karachi.
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