Tag: Champions Trophy 2025

Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has predicted the winner of the high-octane ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India.

The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The eight-team tournament will consist of 15 matches over 19 days and will take place in Pakistan and Dubai.

The arch-rivals Pakistan and India have been placed in Group A alongside New Zealand and Bangladesh. The much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.

Shoaib Akhtar, during a media interaction in Dubai, predicted that Pakistan will defeat India in their group match in the Champions Trophy.

“I’m hopeful that Pakistan will defeat India on February 23. In fact, I believe that both Pakistan and India should also meet in the final of the tournament,” he predicted.

“If Pakistan defeats India and New Zealand in the Champions Trophy, the Green Shirts will have already won half the tournament.”

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He also shared his prediction for the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy.

“I believe Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan will reach the semi-finals of the 2025 Champions Trophy,” he stated.

“If Afghanistan’s team demonstrates maturity and their batsmen show patience, they could deliver surprising results.”

In Pakistan, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi will be the three venues to host tournament play. Each Pakistan venue will feature three group games apiece, with Lahore hosting the second semi-final.

Lahore will also host the final on 9 March, unless India qualify, in which case it will be played in Dubai.

Both the semi-finals and the final will have reserve days. The three group matches involving India, as well as the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.

READ: ICC unveils nominees for Player of the Month awards for January 2025

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the list of match officials for the Champions Trophy 2025, however, no Indian umpires or referees made the cut for the tournament.

According to Indian media reports, match referee Javagal Srinath and umpire Nitin Menon opted out of the tournament after ‘mutually agreeing’ with the ICC to withdraw from officiating in Pakistan.

While Srinath reportedly applied for leave and Menon cited personal reasons, their absence is believed to be due to their reluctance to travel to Pakistan.

With India playing all its group-stage matches in Dubai, neither official was eligible to officiate any of those games due to ICC’s policy of appointing neutral umpires for all its events. As a result, both match officials are set to miss the Champions Trophy.

A distinguished panel of 12 umpires will officiate the Champions Trophy, with six returning officials from the 2017 edition, including Richard Kettleborough, who stood in the final between Pakistan and India.

Kettleborough, a veteran of 108 Men’s ODIs, will be joined by fellow umpires Chris Gaffaney, Kumar Dharmasena, Richard Illingworth, Paul Reiffel, and Rod Tucker, who also officiated in the 2017 tournament.

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Dharmasena will be extending his stint of officiating 132 ODIs at the upcoming tournament, a record for an umpire from Sri Lanka in the One-Day format.

Kettleborough and Illingworth, who both stood together during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final in Ahmedabad.

They are joined by Michael Gough, Adrian Holdstock, Ahsan Raza, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Alex Wharf, and Joel Wilson, all of whom officiated at the World Cup in India.

The panel of match referees will be led by David Boon, Ranjan Madugalle, and Andrew Pycroft, all esteemed members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.

Boon officiated the 2017 Champions Trophy final, while Madugalle returns after officiating the 2013 final, and Pycroft also featured in the 2017 tournament.

Match Officials: Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena, Chris Gaffaney, Michael Gough, Adrian Holdstock, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Ahsan Raza, Paul Reiffel, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Rodney Tucker, Alex Wharf, Joel Wilson.

Match Referees: David Boon, Ranjan Madugalle, Andrew Pycroft.

READ: Double blow for Australia as key fast bowlers ruled out of Champions Trophy 2025

Australia suffered a double blow ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 as captain Pat Cummins and star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the eight-team event.

“Australia will need to make four changes to their preliminary squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy with confirmation skipper Pat Cummins and fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the tournament,” Cricket Australia (CA) said in a statement.

The statement revealed that the Australian captain failed to recover from his ankle injury while Hazlewood was dealing with a hip issue that kept him out of part of the Test series against India.

“Cummins has not recovered from the ankle issue that plagued him towards the end of the recent Border Gavaskar Trophy Test series against India, while Hazlewood has developed a hip problem following earlier hip and calf strains,” the statement added.

“Both fast bowlers will require an extended period of rehabilitation before they receive the all-clear to return to play, which places a question mark over their involvement in the Indian Premier League which follows the Champions Trophy.”

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Earlier today, Australia suffered another blow to their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as their star all-rounder Marcus Stoinis left fans shocked with his immediate retirement from the ODI format.

Meanwhile, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has already been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury.

“Unfortunately Pat [Cummins], Josh [Hazlewood] and Mitch [Marsh] are managing some ongoing injuries and haven’t come up in time for the Champion’s Trophy,” national selection panel chair George Bailey said today.

“While disappointing, it does present a great opportunity for other players to perform for Australia in a world event.”

Australia preliminary squad for Champions Trophy: Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

READ: Australia all-rounder announces shock retirement ahead of Champions Trophy

Pakistan interim head coach Aqib Javed has downplayed the threat posed by star India pacer Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the high-octane clash between the arch-rivals in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.

Bumrah, the spearhead of the Indian pace attack, is widely regarded as a formidable asset across all formats of cricket.

Currently, he is grappling with a back spasm that has unfortunately led to his omission from India’s squad for the ODI series against England.

The significance of Bumrah’s absence is underscored by reports from Indian media, which suggest that his recovery may also hinder his participation in the forthcoming Champions Trophy, casting a shadow over India’s bowling strength.

In light of the current situation, Aqib Javed, the interim coach of the Pakistan national cricket team, has expressed his views on Bumrah’s potential participation in the Champions Trophy 2025 and how Pakistan intends to strategize against him.

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“They [India] should be worried about Bumrah’s fitness. When you play in the Champions Trophy, the most beautiful thing about it is you can’t take any team lightly,” said Aqib.

“The top eight best teams are playing. If any team has a bowler like Bumrah, it is a plus point. But it is not like we will plan everything around him.”

Earlier, India captain Rohit Sharma said that the side was waiting update on Jasprit Bumrah’s scans as he was left out of the Playing XI for the first ODI against England

“Jasprit [Bumrah], obviously we’re waiting on some update about his scan, which is due to happen in the next few days,” he stated.

“We’re just waiting on that update, which is going to happen in the next few days, the scan. Then, probably we’ll have a little more clarity about his participation in the last ODI.”

READ: PCB to unveil Champions Trophy 2025 jersey on THIS date

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is all set to unveil the national team’s official jersey for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 in a grand ceremony at the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium here on February 7.

According to reports, the event will not only mark the jersey launch but also celebrate the completion of Gaddafi Stadium’s renovation ahead of the mega tournament.

The ceremony will be graced by Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, who will officially inaugurate the upgraded venue at 7 PM, followed by the jersey unveiling at 7:30 PM.

Fans will be allowed free entry, with gates opening at 5:30 PM. Meanwhile, the PCB has reserved the Imran Khan enclosure for special guests attending the event.

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Gaddafi Stadium, now fully revamped, will be in the spotlight during the tri-nation ODI series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, hosting matches on February 8 and 10.

The venue is also set to play a major role in the Champions Trophy, with at least four matches, including the second semi-final on March 5.

Additionally, if India does not qualify for the final, Gaddafi Stadium is likely to host the title clash on March 9.

It’s worth noting that the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

READ: Australia all-rounder announces shock retirement ahead of Champions Trophy

Australia suffered a major blow to their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as their star all-rounder Marcus Stoinis left fans shocked with his immediate retirement from the ODI format just before the mega-event.

Stoinis announced his decision on Thursday morning, leaving Australia without another all-rounder following the injury of Mitchell Marsh which ruled him out of the upcoming tournament.

“Playing ODI cricket for Australia has been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every moment I’ve had in the green and gold,” Stoinis said in a statement.

“Representing my country at the highest level is something I’ll always cherish.

“This wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right time for me to step away from ODIs and fully focus on the next chapter of my career.

“I’ve got a fantastic relationship with Ron [Andrew McDonald] and I’ve hugely appreciated his support.”

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He concluded his statement by expressing support for the Australia cricket team, which is set to depart for Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy 2025.

“I’ll be cheering the boys on in Pakistan,” he said.

Marcus Stoinis was a member of the 2023 ODI World Cup-winning squad and played a crucial role with the ball against Pakistan, helping Australia recover from a poor start in the tournament ultimately leading them to victory.

However, he played only one more ODI after the World Cup, which was also against Pakistan earlier this season.

Last year, he did not receive a contract from Cricket Australia (CA), but he was expected to play a key role in the Champions Trophy due to the injury of Cameron Green and Marsh.

The retirement of Marcus Stoinis has presented another challenge for the Australian team management.

They will need to make several adjustments to their Champions Trophy squad, as Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out due to a back injury. Additionally, captain Pat Cummins is unlikely to participate, along with fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood.

READ: Aqib Javed defends Faheem, Khushdil’s selection in Champions Trophy squad

LAHORE: Pakistan interim head coach Aqib Javed defended the selection of all-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah in the national team’s squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Wednesday.

While addressing the media ahead of the Pakistan team’s second practice session, Aqib revealed the thought process behind the selection of the above-mentioned players.

Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah, who had previously played in the ODI format in September 2023 and August 2022, made their comebacks to the national ODI team for the Champions Trophy.

The decision was questioned by former cricket players, and their unexpected selection sparked a social media outcry from fans.

“Criticism regarding Faheem Ashraf’s selection is their opinion, and we respect that. However, we believe in his potential and contribution to the team,” said Aqib.

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“Khushdil Shah’s batting technique is currently at its peak, his name was discussed before the visit to Australia.”

”He was added to the team because we needed an all-round player to cover for Saim Ayub, who could not be replaced by an opening batsman,” explained the head coach.

Discussing the team’s combination, Aqib confirmed that Pakistan usually fields only one specialist spinner in the playing XI unless an injury forces a change.

“If there’s an injury concern, we can immediately bring in a replacement, Saim’s injury posed challenges for the selection committee, and Abrar Ahmed’s presence limited opportunities for Sufiyan Muqeem, given the team’s strategy of using just one spinner,” he added.

Aqib Javed also revealed that while Aamir Jamal hasn’t played ODIs yet, he was considered for selection but didn’t make the final cut.

The head coach also shared his insights about the evolution of the game and the need to score 300 runs.

“Cricket has become faster over the past three to four years, and scoring 300 runs is now a routine achievement without needing to alter the batting approach significantly,” said Aqib.

He also shed light on the importance of scenario-based matches and practising on centre wicket.

“Playing on the centre wicket provides a more match-like environment, which is a common practice worldwide,” Aqib explained.

The head coach concluded by expressing enthusiasm for the Champions Trophy, noting that it will feature the world’s best teams, offering Pakistan a platform to prove their mettle on the global stage.

READ: ICC reveals match officials for Champions Trophy 2025

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday unveiled a list of 15 match officials for the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be played in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 19 February.

A distinguished panel of 12 umpires will officiate the Champions Trophy, with six returning officials from the 2017 edition, including Richard Kettleborough, who stood in the final between Pakistan and India.

Kettleborough, a veteran of 108 Men’s ODIs, will be joined by fellow umpires Chris Gaffaney, Kumar Dharmasena, Richard Illingworth, Paul Reiffel, and Rod Tucker, who also officiated in the 2017 tournament.

Dharmasena will be extending his stint of officiating 132 ODIs at the upcoming tournament, a record for an umpire from Sri Lanka in the One-Day format.

Kettleborough and Illingworth, who both stood together during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final in Ahmedabad.

They are joined by Michael Gough, Adrian Holdstock, Ahsan Raza, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Alex Wharf, and Joel Wilson, all of whom officiated at the World Cup in India.

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The panel of match referees will be led by David Boon, Ranjan Madugalle, and Andrew Pycroft, all esteemed members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.

Boon officiated the 2017 Champions Trophy final, while Madugalle returns after officiating the 2013 final, and Pycroft also featured in the 2017 tournament.

“We are pleased to announce this highly credentialed team of match officials for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. Their collective expertise and experience will be invaluable in ensuring the tournament runs smoothly,” said Sean Easey, ICC Senior Manager – Umpires and Referees.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to take control of the venues for the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 immediately after the conclusion of the tri-nation ODI series featuring hosts Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Sources have confirmed that the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which is scheduled to host the first two matches of the series on February 8 and 10, will be handed over to the ICC on February 11.

Similarly, Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, which will host the remaining two fixtures on February 12 and 14, will come under ICC control on February 15.

With the venues under its jurisdiction, the ICC will oversee final preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025.

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It’s worth noting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) did not request an extension for the venue handover, as all logistical matters have been aligned with the original schedule.

The ICC has raised no objections regarding the use of these venues for the tri-series, as it is common practice for host nations to utilize their stadiums for international fixtures in the lead-up to a major ICC event.

The tri-nation series holds significant importance for Pakistan as well as New Zealand and South Africa as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Tri-nation series schedule

8 February 2025, Pakistan vs New Zealand (14:00)

10 February 2025, South Africa vs New Zealand (09:30)

12 February 2025, South Africa vs Pakistan (14:00)

14 February 2025, Final (14:00)

READ: Former cricketer predicts winner of Pakistan-India Champions Trophy game

Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has expressed his views about the high-octane match between Pakistan and India in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ali compared the team combinations of the two sides ahead of the eight-team tournament.

According to Basit Ali, India will have the upper hand in the match due to their players’ experience while Pakistan’s fragile middle order will be a concern.

“Most of our middle-order batters have not played for Pakistan in a long time. I think India have a 70 percent chance while Pakistan will have a 30 percent chance in the game, given India is a more experienced side,” he said.

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Additionally, Ali believes that the game between arch-rivals will be even in case Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli fail to regain form before the all-important Champions Trophy 2025 match.

“If Virat and Rohit are not in form, then the game will be even,” he concluded.

For the unversed, the defending champions and hosts Pakistan and India have been placed in Group A alongside New Zealand and Bangladesh.

The Men in Green will begin their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a game against New Zealand on February 19, and India will play their first match against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai.

The arch-rivals India and Pakistan will face off each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.

Pakistan will play their third and final group match in Rawalpindi against Bangladesh on February 27.

READ: New Zealand squad arrives in Lahore for tri-nation ODI series