Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Matches Confirmed in Dubai Under Hybrid Model
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Matches to Be Played in Dubai
Dubai has been confirmed as the venue for all of India’s matches in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, including one of the semi-finals and potentially the final, should India make it that far. This decision was part of a hybrid hosting model finalized between the ICC, the PCB, and other stakeholders.
According to the official schedule released by the ICC, “semi-final 1 will involve India if they qualify” and will take place in Dubai. Similarly, “semi-final 2 will involve Pakistan if they qualify” and will be hosted in Lahore. The final, originally scheduled for Lahore, will be moved to Dubai if India qualifies. Both the semi-finals and the final have been allocated reserve days to accommodate any weather-related disruptions.
This arrangement came after a key meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, a senior UAE minister and head of the Emirates Cricket Board. The agreement ensures that India’s games will be played at a neutral venue, addressing the longstanding India-Pakistan hosting standoff.
Group Stages and Key Fixtures
India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the marquee clash against Pakistan on February 23, a Sunday. The final group-stage match for India will be against New Zealand on March 2.
The other teams in Group A are Bangladesh and New Zealand, while Group B includes Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. Pakistan, the defending champions, will play their group-stage matches across Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
Neutral Venue Clause and Future Events
Under the hybrid model, Pakistan’s matches in ICC events hosted by India until 2027 will also be held at neutral venues. This agreement extends beyond the Champions Trophy, applying to other upcoming tournaments, including:
- 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India
- 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup (co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka)
- 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan
The PCB welcomed this resolution, emphasizing the principles of equality and collaboration. “We are pleased that an agreement has been reached showcasing the spirit of cooperation that defines our sport,” said Mohsin Naqvi, PCB Chairman.
The hybrid hosting model not only resolves logistical and political challenges but also sets a precedent for managing sensitive fixtures in global cricket tournaments.
