The International Cricket Council (ICC) has finally unveiled the schedule for the highly anticipated Champions Trophy 2025. Initially planned to be hosted exclusively by Pakistan, the tournament faced opposition from India, citing their government’s stance on traveling to the neighboring country. After extensive deliberations, the ICC announced a compromise: the tournament will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Dubai, with India’s matches scheduled to take place in Dubai.
The marquee event is set to commence on February 19, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match. The dual hosting arrangement has stirred debates within the cricketing community. Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson voiced his disappointment over India’s refusal to play in Pakistan, calling the situation “unfortunate” and lamenting its impact on cricket’s most celebrated rivalry.
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“It’s really unfortunate that things have unfolded this way,” Shane Watson remarked during the trophy tour, as quoted by NDTV Sports. “India-Pakistan matches are always special, particularly in ICC events. It’s disappointing that India isn’t traveling to Pakistan, but that’s just the reality right now.”
Watson’s sentiments echo the widespread longing for the electrifying contests between the two nations. Fans still remember the iconic 2017 Champions Trophy final at The Oval, where Pakistan triumphed in style, defeating India by a significant margin. Fakhar Zaman was the star of the day, smashing a scintillating century—114 off just 106 balls—to set a formidable target.
India’s chase faltered early, with the top order crumbling under pressure. Hardik Pandya’s aggressive counterattack offered brief hope, but a mix-up with Ravindra Jadeja resulted in a crucial run-out, dashing India’s chances. Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, claimed a historic victory, etching their name on the silverware.
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As the cricketing world gears up for the 2025 edition, the dual hosting arrangement may alter the dynamics, but the excitement surrounding the India-Pakistan rivalry remains undiminished. Fans eagerly await another chapter in this storied contest.
