The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on Wednesday, marking the first global cricket event hosted by Pakistan in nearly three decades. However, the tournament’s build-up has been far from smooth, with the competition split between Pakistan and Dubai, and off-field controversy surrounding England’s match against Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s Role as Co-Host
This event is historic for Pakistan, which will host a global ICC tournament for the first time since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. After a devastating attack on the Sri Lankan team in 2009, international cricket was suspended in Pakistan for several years. However, security improvements have allowed the return of international teams, and this Champions Trophy marks a major step forward. Karachi and Rawalpindi will host the games in Pakistan.
India’s Absence in Pakistan
However, India, due to long-standing political tensions, will not play in Pakistan and will instead have their matches in Dubai, UAE. This decision came after a lengthy impasse, resolved in December 2024, when the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that India’s games would take place in the UAE. If India reaches the final, it is likely to be played in Dubai rather than Karachi.
Key Matches and Teams to Watch
The Champions Trophy will feature 8 teams split into two groups:
- Group A: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan, South Africa
Each group will send two teams to the semi-finals, which will be held in Dubai and Lahore. The opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi on 19 February kicks off the tournament, followed by the high-profile clash between India and Pakistan in Dubai on 23 February.
England’s Controversial Match Against Afghanistan
Off the field, England faces calls to boycott their match against Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s ban on women in sport. Despite more than 160 British politicians advocating for a boycott, England Cricket Board chairman Richard Thompson emphasized that the match would go ahead, believing that a unified global response would have more impact than individual actions.
Key Players and Teams to Watch
India enters the tournament as favorites, bolstered by their all-round strength, despite the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and some inconsistent performances from Virat Kohli. Pakistan, the reigning champions, will rely on their unpredictable nature, while New Zealand, with a well-rounded squad, and South Africa, with their potent pace attack, are also expected to be strong contenders.
Meanwhile, Australia, despite winning the 2023 World Cup, will be without key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, leaving them vulnerable. Afghanistan, led by the explosive Rashid Khan, could once again cause upsets after their impressive showing in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Looking Ahead
The Champions Trophy 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting tournament with plenty of drama both on and off the field. As the opening match approaches, fans across the world are eager to see how the teams will fare in these unpredictable conditions.
