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The ICC on Tuesday confirmed the schedule of the next year’s Champions Trophy which will be held in Hybrid Model.
India start their CT campaign against Bangladesh. (PTI Photo)
The veil over ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has finally been lifted after much delay. The schedule for the marquee event was expected to be announced last month but the stalemate between BCCI, PCB and the ICC over the venue of India’s matches put a big question mark over the entire tournament which is returning for the first time since 2017. BCCI had refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan – the host of the Champions Trophy – citing security concerns. ICC advised PCB to employ the Hybrid Model which would mean India matches will be held at a neutral venue.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) initially rejected the suggestion. ICC then accepted a few of PCB demands in lieu of accepting the Hybrid Model following which the schedule was confirmed on Tuesday (December 24).
What is Hybrid Model?
As per the format, all India matches at the next year’s marquee competition will be held at a neutral venue including the blockbuster clash with Pakistan. At the 2023 Asia Cup – also hosted by Pakistan – a Hybrid Model was followed for India matches which were played in Sri Lanka.
For the Champions Trophy, Dubai has been picked as the neutral venue.
India and Pakistan in Same Group
India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh have been kept in Group A while Australia, England, South Africa and Afghanistan are in Group B.
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Full Schedule
February 20: India vs Bangladesh at Dubai International Cricket Stadium
February 23: India vs Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium
March 2: India vs New Zealand at Dubai International Cricket Stadium
Where will the semifinals and the final be held?
As per the arrangement, one semifinal will be held in Lahore (Pakistan) and the other in Dubai. The venue of the final is in Lahore.
What happens if India qualify for the semifinals?
In case if India make it to the semis, then they will play their fixture in Dubai.
What if India qualify for the final?
In that case, the title clash will be held in Dubai and not Lahore irrespective of who the opponent is.
Are there reserve days?
Yes. Both the semifinals and the final have reserve days.
