ICC Champions Trophy Archives

Star spinner likely to be called up to India’s Champions Trophy squad: reports

Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy is likely to be added to the national team’s squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Indian media reported.

The reports came out in the wake of the fact that the mystery spinner joined the national team’s training camp on Tuesday ahead of the three-match ODI series against England.

It’s worth mentioning that the deadline for the teams to make changes to their preliminary squads without ICC approval is February 11.

Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not announced his inclusion in the squad, his presence in the training camp has raised speculations that might be added to the squad for the England ODIs as well as Champions Trophy 2025.

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India has previously named four spinners in their preliminary squad for the eight-team event, including the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sunder, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel.

Previously, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement, predicted that Varun Chakravarthy could be added to the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, following his brilliant bowling performance in the T20I series against England.

Chakravarthy bagged the Player of the Series award in the five-match T20I series, after claiming 14 wickets.

India squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (vc), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah*, Mohammad Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashaswi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja

*Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is subject to his fitness.

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Champions Trophy 2025: Jasprit Bumrah set to undergo scans amid injury scare

BENGALURU: Indian pace stalwart Jasprit Bumrah is set to undergo scans and assessment under the BCCI medical team supervision amid an injury scare ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The right-arm pacer arrived at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on Monday to undergo scans on his injured back ahead of the multi-nation tournament.

According to the reports, Bumrah will remain at NCA for at least two to three days as part of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team’s evaluation of the severity of his injury.

After the team’s observations, the medical panel will submit their reports to the Indian team selection committee, chaired by Ajit Agarkar.

The 33-year-old fast bowler who picked a back injury in the final test down under in their recent five-match away series, is part of India’s squad for the Champions Trophy.

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Last month, the chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar while announcing the squad, revealed that Jasprit Bumrah will not play in the first two ODIs in a three-match home series against England.

“Bumrah has been told to off-load for five weeks after and he won’t be available for the first two ODIs against England. We are waiting on his fitness and will know his status in early February from the medical team,” said Agarkar in a press conference.

“We’ll probably find out a bit more around that time, what exactly, and with regards to what his medical condition is, I’m sure BCCI might just put something out, from the physio itself,” Agarkar concluded.

According to the Times of India, the final decision on Bumrah’s participation in the mega event will be taken after his injury assessment but if he fails to recover on time, he is likely to be replaced by all-rounder Harshit Rana

India squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

*Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is subject to his fitness.

READ: Champions Trophy 2025: compete list of announced team squads

Gautam Gambhir opens up on hype around India-Pakistan clash at Champions Trophy

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has downplayed the hype around the high-octane clash against arch-rivals Pakistan during the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The neighbouring countries will square off on Sunday, February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Gautam Gambhir discussed the emotional significance of the India-Pakistan match while emphasizing that it is still just another game as their primary objective is to win the Champions Trophy.

“Look, we don’t go to the Champions Trophy [2025] thinking that the 23rd is the most important game for us. I think five games, all the games are important,” Gautam Gambhir said during the annual BCCI awards.

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“The mission to go to Dubai is to win the Champions Trophy, not only win one particular game. But yes, if that is one game in the middle of winning the title, we’re going to try and take it as seriously as possible.”

“And more importantly, I think when two countries, India and Pakistan, play against each other, obviously the emotions are really high, but ultimately the contest remains the same.”

Gambhir emphasized the fierce competition in the eight-team tournament, stating that the format leaves little margin for error, making every match crucial for a title challenge.

“Champions Trophy is a completely different challenge as compared to the 50-over World Cup because literally every game is a make-or-break, so you can’t stop anywhere in this tournament,” Gambhir noted.

READ: Wasim Akram questions Faheem Ashraf’s selection in Pakistan squad

Ricky Ponting, Ravi Shastri predict Champions Trophy 2025 finalists

Former Australian and Indian great players Ricky Ponting and Ravi Shastri predicted the two former champion teams as the finalists of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan.

Ponting and Shastri made bold predictions about two teams reaching the finals due to their recent performances in major tournaments.

The duo made these predictions in a bumper episode of The ICC Review while speaking to the host Sanjana Ganesan.

While sharing his views in the episode Ricky Ponting predicted Australia and India to play in the big final.

”It’s hard to go past India and Australia again,” Ponting told The ICC Review.

“Just think about the quality of players in both countries right now, and you look back in recent history when these big finals and big ICC events have come around and inevitably Australia and India are there somewhere” said the Australian legend.

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Meanwhile, Ponting also named Pakistan as another team that could pose a significant challenge to the two teams.

“The other team that is playing some really good cricket at the moment is Pakistan, Their one-day cricket over the last little bit has been outstanding.”

“We know they’re not always the most predictable team in those big tournaments, but they seem like they’ve sorted things out a little bit” Ponting concluded.

Moreover, along with tipping the Indian team to go all the way in the tournament, Former India head coach Ravi Shastri predicted England and South Africa as the other semi-finalists of the mega event.

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

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 of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 involving India, as well as the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.

READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Physical tickets to go on sale from 3 February

Champions Trophy 2025: Physical tickets to go on sale from 3 February

Dubai: The physical tickets for the much anticipated eight-team tournament ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will go on sale from Monday, 3 February.

Following this week’s sale of online tickets, physical tickets will be available to fans at the 108 Tranzum Courier Service (TCS) centres located in 26 cities across event-hosting Pakistan.

Meanwhile, ticket information for India matches to be played in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 20 and 23 February and 2 March, will be released in due course.

The tickets for the Champions Trophy Final to be played on Sunday, 9 March – will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the first semi-final in Dubai.

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For the unversed, 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.

In Pakistan, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi will be the three venues to host Champions Trophy 2025 matches. 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: Tickets for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to go on sale from THIS date

WATCH: Afghanistan’s jersey for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 revealed

KABUL: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has revealed the new team jersey for their maiden outing of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by defending Champions Pakistan.

The announcement was made via the cricket board’s social handles, in which ACB shared a video of Afghanistan players wearing the jersey which took inspiration from the country’s cultural heritage.

The team kit for the Champions Trophy 2025 includes patterns of the historic Jam Minaret in Ghor Province.

The ACB wrote about the design and blending of geometric patterns on the jersey in a post on the social media site Instagram.

The cricket board captioned the post, “Presenting Afghanistan’s Official Jersey for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025!”

“Inspired by our rich cultural heritage, the jersey design beautifully blends the elegance of Naskh calligraphy with the geometric patterns of the historic Jam Minaret in Ghor Province,” the ACB wrote.

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A post shared by Afghanistan Cricket Board (@afghanistancricketboard)

“The Jam Minaret, standing for nearly 800 years, is located in the historic city of Firuzkuh along the banks of the Harirod River. With a height of 65 meters and a diameter of 9 meters, it serves as a testament to Afghanistan’s rich heritage.”

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The message added, “As AfghanAtalan take the field, they will wear the spirit of unity, the determination of our nation, and the elegance of Jam. They will create history and keep Afghanistan’s name shining on the global stage!”

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.

Afghanistan will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign with a clash against South Africa in Karachi on February 21, before they face England and Australia in Lahore.

Afghanistan squad for Champions Trophy 2025

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran and Farid Ahmad Malik.

READ: PCB finalizes schedule for Champions Trophy opening ceremony: sources

Tickets for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to go on sale from THIS date

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday revealed that the tickets for the Pakistan leg of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 will go on sale from 28 January.

“Fans can now secure their place at the unmissable ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, taking place in Pakistan with India’s matches in the UAE from 19 February to 9 March,” the ICC stated in a press release.

“Tickets for group stage matches and the second semi-final to be played in Pakistan will go on general sale here on Tuesday, 28 January, at 13h00 Gulf Standard Time (GST) / 14h00 Pakistan Standard Time (PST).”

General stand ticket prices will start from 1,000 PKR, with more premium seating available from 1,500 PKR in different categories including, across the 10 matches taking place in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

Physical tickets will also be available for purchase from 3 February at designated TCS Express centres across Pakistan, with details to be announced in due course.

Ticket information for India matches to be played in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on 20 and 23 February and 2 March, will follow shortly.

ICC Men’s Champions Trophy Final tickets – to be played on Sunday 9 March – will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the first semi-final in Dubai.

The thrilling two-week competition will see the world’s top eight teams put it all on the line in 15 intense matches across 19 days, with every match counting in the pursuit of the iconic white jackets.

Anurag Dahiya, the ICC Chief Commercial Officer, has expressed his excitement while announcing the details of the ticket sale. He termed it a significant moment for Pakistan as the country is set to host their first-ever ICC event since the 1996 World Cup.

“We are thrilled to announce the official ticket on-sale for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. This is a significant moment for cricket in Pakistan, hosting their first global cricket tournament since 1996,” said Dahiya.

“The Champions Trophy promises to be an unmissable event where every match counts showcasing exciting cricket, featuring the world’s best teams competing for the coveted white jackets.

“We encourage fans to not miss out and get their tickets now for the first Champions Trophy since 2017.”

Meanwhile, Sumair Ahmad Syed, the tournament director of the Champions Trophy, acknowledged that this tournament will be a memorable event for fans in Pakistan as they will be witnessing the world’s best players in action.

“The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a monumental event, first in Pakistan since 1996, offering cricket fans an unparalleled chance to witness the game’s finest stars live in action as they vie for one of the most coveted trophies in cricket,” he stated.

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“With Pakistan’s state-of-the-art, newly upgraded stadiums as the stage, this short and sharp tournament in which every match counts promises unforgettable moments of skill, passion and drama.

Syed stated that ticket prices have been made affordable so that fans from all walks of life can enjoy the live tournament action.

“The affordable ticket pricing ensures that fans from all walks of life can be part of this historic spectacle, making it a celebration for all generations of cricket lovers,” he added.

“This is a unique opportunity for families to come together, for parents to introduce their children to the magic of live cricket and to inspire a lifelong love for the sport. The energy, excitement and unforgettable memories of watching world-class cricket from the stands will be truly priceless.

“We have made tickets not only affordable but also easily accessible through the official online platform and more than 100 outlets across Pakistan. I urge all fans to secure their tickets only through this authorised channel to ensure a smooth experience.

“Join us in supporting the competing teams, including Pakistan, as they aim to defend their title on home soil. Let’s unite, celebrate, and make this tournament a resounding success!”

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PCB releases video showcasing progress of Gaddafi Stadium’s renovation

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday released an exciting video showcasing the ongoing renovations of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

The video highlights the massive overhaul undertaken under the leadership of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who played a hands-on role in ensuring the stadium’s refurbishment was completed within five months.

From the installation of brand-new seats to the addition of state-of-the-art facilities, the footage offers a glimpse of the stadium’s modernized look.

One of the most striking features shown in the video is the upgraded floodlight towers, now equipped with new bulbs that promise to illuminate the ground like never before.

Additionally, the installation of two digital screens, one of which has been completed, is set to enhance the fan experience during matches.

The video also reveals the finishing touches being applied to the stands, which are expected to provide a more comfortable and vibrant atmosphere for spectators.

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The professional redesign aims to make Gaddafi Stadium comparable to the world’s best cricket venues, ensuring an unmatched experience for fans, players, media personnel, and officials.

Gaddafi Stadium will first host a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa before the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19.

The clash between England and Australia on February 22 will be the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 at the Gaddafi Stadium.

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Rohit Sharma makes bold statement ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

Indian captain Rohit Sharma has issued a bold statement about his ambitions for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

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.

It’s worth noting that India will play all their matches in Dubai, while the rest of the tournament will be played across Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi in Pakistan.

The final is scheduled in Lahore on 9 March, unless India qualify, in which case it will be played in Dubai.

Rohit Sharma, during the Golden Jubilee anniversary celebrations of Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, expressed his resolve to bring the coveted trophy to the venue after winning the tournament.

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“We will try our best. I’m sure that the wishes of 140 crore Indians will be behind us when we land in Dubai for the Champions Trophy,” Rohit Sharma said.

“We will try to do well and bring the Champions Trophy 2025 to the Wankhede Stadium (once we win)”

It is worth noting here that India, led by Virat Kohli, entered the Champions Trophy 2017 edition as defending champions, having won the 2013 edition under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. However, they were defeated by arch-rivals Pakistan in the final.

The Men In Blue are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. They will kick off their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20.

India squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

*Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is subject to his fitness.

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Sunil Gavaskar names his favorites for Champions Trophy 2025

Legendary Indian batter Sunil Gavaskar has recently revealed his favorites to win the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

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.

It’s worth noting that India will play all their matches in Dubai, while the rest of the tournament will be played across Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi in Pakistan.

The final is scheduled in Lahore on 9 March, unless India qualify, in which case it will be played in Dubai.

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Sunil Gavaskar, during an interview, named Pakistan as the favorites, highlighting their home advantage as a major factor.

“The tag of favourites should be given to the home team Pakistan as it’s not easy to beat any team in their home conditions,” Gavaskar said.

The legendary batter cited India’s example of their dominant performance in the home ODI World Cup in 2023, where they remained unbeaten throughout the tournament before losing to Australia in the final.

“India lost in the final of the ODI World Cup 2023 but before that, they put up clinical performances and won ten matches on the trot,” he mentioned.

“Hence, I feel Pakistan are the favourites for the upcoming tournament.”

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