ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Captains’ Event Cancelled
The ICC and PCB have canceled the captains’ photoshoot and press conference for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This decision follows the BCCI’s refusal to send Rohit Sharma to Pakistan.
Team Arrivals and Tournament Schedule
England is set to arrive in Pakistan on February 18, just one day before the tournament kicks off. Host nation Pakistan will face New Zealand in the opening match on February 19. Meanwhile, Australia will land in Pakistan on the same day as the tournament opener.
Geo Super says England will take a week off after their ODI series with India. Then, they will head to Pakistan. Australia will give players a four-day break after the final Test match with Sri Lanka. Neither England nor Australia will participate in warm-up matches.
Opening Ceremony Plans
The PCB will have an opening ceremony at Hazuri Bagh in Lahore on February 16. This is happening even though they canceled the captains’ event. Lahore and Karachi may hold more ceremonies. They will have high-profile attendees, including the Prime Minister and President of Pakistan.
Venue and Ticket Sales Updates
Ticket sales for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan have begun. However, the three designated venues are still undergoing preparations. India’s group-stage matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand will be held in Dubai instead of Pakistan. If India qualifies for the semi-finals and final, both knockout matches will also be hosted in Dubai.
MS Dhoni Stars in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Promo Amid India’s Squad Concerns
Key Takeaways:
- The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 captains’ event was cancelled. The BCCI was reluctant to send Rohit Sharma.
- England arrives on Feb 18; Australia on Feb 19—neither will play warm-up matches.
- Pakistan vs. New Zealand to open the tournament on Feb 19.
- Grand opening ceremony planned at Lahore’s Hazuri Bagh on Feb 16.
- India to play all matches in Dubai; semi-finals and final also moved to Dubai if India qualifies.