In a highly anticipated rematch following Pakistan’s heartbreaking defeat to India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, cricket fans might witness another thrilling India-Pakistan clash. Reports indicate that Lahore is poised to host all India matches in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
The draft schedule, submitted to the International Cricket Council (ICC), proposes that the India-Pakistan encounter will be the last league match of the tournament, which is set to run from February 19 to March 9, 2025, in Pakistan.
However, the India-Pakistan game in Lahore hinges on approval from the Government of India. Should permission be denied, a hybrid model similar to the one used for the previous year’s Asia Cup might be adopted, with UAE hosting the India matches. Despite this uncertainty, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is moving forward with preparations.
The PCB has designated Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi as the key venues for the 20-day tournament. Lahore is slated to host seven matches, including all India games, while Rawalpindi will see five matches, and Karachi will host three. Karachi will also host the tournament’s opening match on February 19 and one of the semifinals, with the other semifinal taking place in Rawalpindi. The final is scheduled for March 9 in Lahore.
Currently, the proposed schedule and venues await final approval from the ICC, pending compliance with geopolitical considerations. All eyes are now on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Government of India for the final decision.
