Hosts Pakistan will kickstart the 2025 Champions Trophy with a clash against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, the ICC confirmed on Tuesday (December 24) while announcing the fixtures. India's group stage matches and one semi-final have been scheduled in Dubai with the big clash against Pakistan set to be played on February 23.
Bangladesh are the fourth team in Group A alongside India, New Zealand and holders Pakistan. Group B has Afghanistan, South Africa, Australia and England. The first clash of Group B will see Afghanistan, first-time participants, take on inaugural champions South Africa on February 21 in Karachi. The marquee fixture between Australia and England will be played on February 22 in Lahore.
Rawalpindi is the third venue in Pakistan to have been allocated games with two of them featuring Bangladesh. The second semifinal and the final will be played in Lahore. But in case India qualify for the title clash, the final will be played in Dubai on March 9. A reserve day has been allotted for each of the knockout games including the final.
