The Champions Trophy is set to return for its ninth edition, featuring the top eight ODI teams in the world. Hosted by defending champions Pakistan and the UAE, the tournament will be played for the first time since 2017. The qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy was determined by the standings in the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup. The tournament kicks off on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi, where hosts Pakistan take on New Zealand in the opening match. The teams have been divided into two groups: Group A: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, New Zealand Group B: Australia, Afghanistan, England, South Africa. As per the tournament format, each team plays once against the others in their group. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals, leading to a grand finale. The final will take place on March 9 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore unless India qualify, in which case the title decider will be held in Dubai. Click here for more ICC Champions Trophy news.
