Champions Trophy 2025 Final: The much anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has taken a groundbreaking turn with the approval of a hybrid hosting model. In a historic agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), it has been confirmed that the tournament will be hosted in both Pakistan and Dubai. However, the hosting of the final match and a potential semifinal will hinge on India’s performance, adding an intriguing twist to this global cricketing spectacle.
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Champions Trophy 2025 Final: Dubai to Host If India Qualifies, Pakistan’s Lahore Otherwise
Dubai to Host Final If India Qualifies
As per reports, the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Dubai if India qualifies for the match. The decision reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two cricketing giants, India and Pakistan. The BCCI’s refusal to send the Indian team to Pakistan led to the adoption of this hybrid hosting arrangement.
Similarly, if India makes it to the semifinals, one semifinal will also be hosted in Dubai, ensuring that India does not have to travel to Pakistan for these critical matches. However, if India is eliminated in the league stage, both the semifinals and final will be held in Pakistan, with Lahore and Rawalpindi slated to host the key fixtures.
What Is the Hybrid Model?
The ICC’s hybrid model divides the Champions Trophy matches between Pakistan and Dubai. While Pakistan will host the majority of the matches, including 10 games, India’s matches, including their group stage clashes and any potential knockout games, will be played in Dubai. This arrangement mirrors the strategy employed during the 2023 Asia Cup, where matches were split between Pakistan and Sri Lanka due to similar political considerations.
India-Pakistan Rivalry in Focus
The decision to host India’s games in Dubai highlights the continuing tension between the PCB and BCCI. The compromise came after months of deadlock, with the BCCI refusing to send its team to Pakistan for security and political reasons. In exchange, Pakistan secured hosting rights for the majority of the tournament, as well as an ICC Women’s tournament post 2027.
Additionally, both boards have reportedly agreed in principle that Pakistan will not travel to India for their group-stage clash in the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will instead take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule and Format
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, featuring eight of the world’s top cricketing nations. The tournament format will include:
- Two groups of four teams each
- The top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals
- A final showdown to crown the champions
The hybrid model ensures that fans in both Pakistan and Dubai will have the chance to witness the world’s best teams in action. However, the ultimate location of the final and semifinal matches now hinges on whether India progresses to the latter stages of the tournament.
No Compensation for PCB
Despite losing the opportunity to host matches featuring India, the PCB will not receive any financial compensation for the adjustment. Instead, their consolation comes in the form of additional hosting rights for an ICC Women’s tournament after 2027.
The compromise has been welcomed by all stakeholders, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah facilitating the agreement to ensure smooth planning for the Champions Trophy and future ICC events.
Looking Ahead
This hybrid model sets a precedent for navigating geopolitical challenges in international cricket. The Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with the unique hosting arrangement adding an extra layer of intrigue to the tournament.
Whether the final takes place in Dubai or Lahore, one thing is certain: the cricketing world will be watching as India, Pakistan, and other top teams battle for glory in one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments. February 19, 2025, marks the beginning of an era defining competition!
FAQs
Where will the Champions Trophy 2025 final be held?
The final will be held in Dubai if India qualifies; otherwise, it will be in Lahore, Pakistan
What is the hybrid model for Champions Trophy 2025?
Matches will be played in both Pakistan and Dubai, with India’s games hosted in Dubai
