Islamabad: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalised the schedule for the opening ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, setting the stage for a grand and spectacular launch of the prestigious tournament.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to begin on February 19, will reportedly start with the opening ceremony, according to The Express Tribune report.
The opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium is set for February 7, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expected to attend as the chief guest.
On February 11, the National Stadium in Karachi will host its opening ceremony, with President Asif Ali Zardari slated to be the guest of honour.
The official opening ceremony for the Champions Trophy will take place on February 16 in Lahore at Hazoori Bagh, followed by a brief ceremony at the venue.
Notable national figures, cricketers, and ICC officials are expected to be present to mark the occasion and celebrate the commencement of the event.
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in a hybrid format, with India’s matches, including the knockout rounds, being played in Dubai.
The PCB aims to highlight the excitement of the Pakistani people as the country hosts the ICC Champions Trophy for the first time in 29 years.
Both the Karachi and Lahore stadiums have undergone significant renovations to meet international standards, showcasing the extensive efforts put into hosting the event.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will feature eight teams competing in 15 matches from February 19 to March 9, with games held across Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. The teams are divided into two groups:
Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia
Hosts Pakistan will begin the tournament against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. The much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.