The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy. According to this decision, all matches involving the Indian cricket team will be played in Dubai. If India qualifies for the semifinals or finals, these matches will also be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This decision resolves the long-standing deadlock over the tournament’s schedule. Under the hybrid model, 9–10 matches will be hosted in Pakistan. However, if India does not reach the finals, the championship match will take place in Lahore, Pakistan.
India’s Probable Schedule
As per the tentative schedule, India will start its campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh. The highly anticipated match against Pakistan is slated for February 23. India will conclude its group-stage matches on March 2 against New Zealand.
Venue Change for India’s Matches
Sources reveal that after a meeting on Saturday between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and UAE Cricket Board President Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, Dubai was finalized as the venue for India’s matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had expressed security concerns regarding playing in Pakistan, leading to the adoption of the hybrid model.
Group Division
- Group A: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, Australia, England
