Pakistan is gearing up to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with foreign teams expected to arrive as early as the first week of February, according to media reports. New Zealand and South Africa are among the first to touch down for both the tournament and a tri-series, with matches scheduled in Karachi and Lahore.
The practice sessions for the eight participating teams are slated to run from 12 to 18 February across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi cricket stadiums. Australia and England are expected to arrive after 10 February, while Afghanistan’s team will reach Karachi in the second week of the month. Each team will have the option to play two practice matches before the tournament’s official start.
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The Champions Trophy kicks off on 19 February, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match. The tournament will culminate in the final, scheduled for 9 March. The highly anticipated Pakistan vs. India clash is set for February 23 in Dubai, adding even more excitement to the event.
A delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) recently visited Karachi’s National Bank Stadium to assess preparations. The delegation, which included ICC officials, broadcasters, and logistics personnel, reviewed the ongoing development works. The upgrades at the National Bank Stadium are expected to be completed by January 25.
The tournament will feature 15 matches with teams split into two groups: Group A includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B comprises Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia.
