India vs. Pakistan Match to Be Held in Dubai
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that the highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match in the 2025 Champions Trophy will take place on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This decision comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to send the Indian team to Pakistan, citing security concerns amid ongoing political tensions. Consequently, all of India’s matches in the tournament will be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Champions Trophy is scheduled from February 19 to March 9, featuring eight teams divided into two groups. Pakistan, the official host, will conduct matches in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, while India’s fixtures are relocated to Dubai.
Key Players Return for India
India’s cricket selectors have unveiled the 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking the return of key players. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who recently suffered back spasms during the Sydney Test against Australia, has been included, with his participation contingent on fitness assessments. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav also makes a comeback after recovering from a groin injury. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who was omitted from the recent T20 series against England, has secured a spot in the squad. The team will be led by Rohit Sharma, with Shubman Gill appointed as vice-captain. Notably, young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal has earned his maiden ODI call-up. India’s campaign is set to commence on February 20 against Bangladesh.
Tournament Details
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to feature 15 matches over 19 days, culminating in the final on March 9. The tournament comprises two groups:
• Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
• Group B: South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan, England
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals. If India reaches the final, it will be held in Dubai; otherwise, Lahore will host the championship match. This arrangement ensures that India’s matches are played at neutral venues due to their decision not to travel to Pakistan.
England’s New White-Ball Era
England is ushering in a new era in white-ball cricket under the guidance of coach Brendon McCullum. The team is set to begin a five-match T20 series against India, starting on January 22. McCullum has emphasized an aggressive playing style, with Jos Buttler slated to bat at the pivotal No. 3 position, relinquishing wicketkeeping duties to focus on his batting. Pacer Mohammed Shami makes a return to the squad after recovering from an ankle injury, while Jasprit Bumrah is sidelined due to back spasms. The series serves as crucial preparation ahead of the Champions Trophy.
The Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a thrilling tournament, with cricketing powerhouses vying for supremacy in both familiar and neutral venues.
