Pakistan to Face India in 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai

Pakistan is set to face India in a crucial group match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy on February 23 in Dubai. Hosting duties include a minimum of ten matches in Pakistan, while India will play its group games in Dubai. The event highlights a significant reconciliation between cricketing nations amid ongoing security concerns.

On February 23, 2025, Pakistan will contend against India in a highly anticipated group match during the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, as revealed in the recently announced schedule. Due to security apprehensions, India has been reluctant to travel to Pakistan, resulting in the International Cricket Council (ICC) delaying the schedule release for over a month. Pakistan will host a minimum of ten matches across Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore, while India will compete in its three Group A matches in Dubai against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand.

The ICC’s chair, Jay Shah, expressed enthusiasm about the tournament’s return since 2017 and emphasized the opportunity the event presents to highlight cricket’s rich heritage alongside modern aspects. The champions from the previous edition, Pakistan, are set to host their first major global cricket tournament since 1996.

Following intense discussions among ICC Board members, it was concluded that Pakistan would not engage in matches in India over the 2024-27 cycle, a reciprocal measure to India’s refusal to visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. As a result, Pakistan will play at neutral venues during India’s hosting of the 2025 Women’s World Cup and the co-hosting of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup with Sri Lanka.

As a concession for not being able to host India during the Champions Trophy, the ICC awarded the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup to Pakistan, a decision that reflects a spirit of cooperation, as acknowledged by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. He hailed the arrangement as a vital step towards promoting cricket at the highest standards and ensuring an extraordinary tournament experience for all stakeholders involved.

The ICC Champions Trophy is one of cricket’s premier tournaments, featuring eight teams competing for prestigious accolades. The event was last hosted in 2017, and its return marks a significant occasion for cricket, particularly for Pakistan, which has not hosted a global event since 1996. The rivalry between Pakistan and India adds an extra layer of excitement to their encounters, making this match one of the most awaited fixtures in cricketing calendars. The dynamics of hosting and travel restrictions due to security concerns have historically influenced these matches, necessitating the use of neutral venues.

In summary, the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy promises thrilling matchups, particularly the clash between Pakistan and India in Dubai. With significant logistical planning and diplomatic negotiations between cricketing bodies, this tournament symbolizes both the competitive spirit of cricket and the complexities of international relations. The PCB is committed to delivering a memorable event that celebrates the sport while navigating security and organizational challenges.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com