Champions Trophy 2025: Dubai Takes Center Stage for India's Matches

Dubai has been officially 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 qualify. The ICC unveiled the tournament schedule on Tuesday, highlighting that India would play "Semi-Final 1" in Dubai if they advance, while "Semi-Final 2" is reserved for Pakistan under similar conditions. Although Lahore is designated as the host for the final, the match will shift to Dubai if India qualifies. Reserve days have been allocated for both semi-finals and the final, ensuring weather disruptions do not derail the matches.

Discussions leading to this arrangement involved Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, a prominent UAE minister and head of the Emirates Cricket Board. Their meeting in Pakistan finalised the decision to host India's games in the UAE, given the political sensitivities between the two nations. 

Naqvi expressed satisfaction: "We are pleased that an agreement has been reached based on the principles of equality and respect, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that defines our sport."

"Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the ICC members who played a constructive role in helping us achieve a mutually beneficial solution. Their efforts have been invaluable in promoting the interests of international cricket."

The much-anticipated group-stage clash between Pakistan and India is set for Sunday, February 23. India’s campaign kicks off against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by a match against New Zealand on March 2. Meanwhile, Pakistan, the defending champions, begin their journey on February 19 against New Zealand in Karachi. Their final group match, against Bangladesh, will take place in Rawalpindi on February 27. Other group games will be held across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, with Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa competing in the second group.

The semi-finals are scheduled for March 4 and 5, though both have reserve days, raising the slight possibility of both matches occurring on the same day if delays arise. Dubai’s typically dry climate in March minimises this risk.

This hybrid hosting model, which applies neutral venues for India's matches, also extends to Pakistan’s games during ICC events hosted in India until 2027. Key knockout matches, including semi-finals and finals, will also be played at neutral locations. This arrangement commences with the Champions Trophy and continues with the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, awarded to Pakistan.

This collaborative decision not only addresses geopolitical challenges but also ensures a fair playing field while strengthening cricket’s global appeal.