The International Cricket Council (ICC) has ratified Dubai as the venue for all India matches in the Champions Trophy 2025. It involves one semi-final and the possible final stage, depending on the progress of India. The tournament, which is planned to run from February to March, will see eight teams play in both Pakistan, the official host country, and the UAE within a hybrid model of hosting.
According to the ICC fixture posted on Tuesday, should the team qualify, the semi-final in the UAE will be played in Dubai on March 4. For example, if Pakistan makes the semi-finals, their semi-final match will be played in Lahore on March 5. Nevertheless, if the country progresses to the championship phase, it will be moved to Dubai. Both semi-finals and final have reserve days to cover for any disruptions.
PCB comments on Dubai being selected as Champions Trophy 2025 neutral venue
This decision has been taken after consultations between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the UAE Minister Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak. PCB expressed satisfaction with the result and stressed equality and respect. This is an example of the cooperation and collaboration spirit inherent to our sport, declared Naqvi. He also expressed appreciation to ICC members for agreeing to a fair solution. His statements read:
“We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution. Their efforts have been invaluable in promoting the interests of international cricket.
“Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for Pakistan, highlighting our commitment to promoting cricket at the highest level and showcasing our capabilities as a premier event organizer. We are dedicated to ensuring that this tournament will be a memorable experience for players, officials, and fans alike.
“Pakistan is elated to welcome the world to the Champions Trophy, and we look forward to extending our renowned hospitality to all.”
India’s group-stage matches include a highly anticipated encounter with Pakistan on February 23, Dubai, and games with Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on March 2. In the meantime, the national team of Pakistan will begin their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi and end the group stage against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.
The hybrid hosting agreement guarantees neutral venues for Pakistan with ICC events hosted by India till 2027. This scheduling begins with the 2025 Champions Trophy and carries through to subsequent events, i.e., the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup and the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup.
On the back of high-pressure duels and legendary clashes, the Champions Trophy holds the excitement of the best cricket fans around the globe.
Also, see: Hybrid model finally accepted for Champions Trophy 2025