There is growing excitement around the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19. Team India captain Rohit Sharma is expected to visit Pakistan ahead of the event to take part in a photo shoot and press conference organized by the ICC.
There was initial uncertainty over the Indian team’s participation in the Champions Trophy, hosted by Pakistan, due to ongoing tensions between the two countries. However, the ICC was able to find a solution, ensuring that both nations would be offered a neutral venue when hosting an ICC tournament.
Rohit Sharma to travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
The host nation usually organizes a major event with all captains participating. This event includes a photo shoot for all the captains and a press conference where the skippers share their expectations for the tournament. All eight captains are expected to attend the upcoming Champions Trophy.
The official confirmation of Rohit Sharma’s trip to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy is yet to be released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). There are speculations that he might attend the all-captain photo shoot and press conference, which is being organized by the host, Sports Tak reported, but nothing has been confirmed so far.
Rohit Sharma has never visited Pakistan during his international career
It is worth mentioning that Rohit Sharma has never visited Pakistan during his international career. If he does make it, it would be a historic moment as it has been years since an Indian cricketer traveled to Pakistan for an international event.
Team India shares the record for most Champions Trophy titles, with Australia, with two wins. They shared the 2002 edition with Sri Lanka after weather conditions prevented a proper match.
India won their second title in 2013 when they beat England at Edgbaston. Namely, they were runners-up in 2017, losing to Pakistan by 180 runs, and in 2000, when they were defeated by New Zealand by four wickets.
India are gearing up for the white ball series against England at home
India are currently preparing for their series against England, which consists of three ODIs before the Champions Trophy. The team is placed in Group A, along with Bangladesh, New Zealand and Pakistan. India will open their campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium.
All of India’s group stage matches will be held in Dubai, including their much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 23. Their last league game is scheduled for March 2 against New Zealand.
If India make it to the semi-finals, they will play on March 4. The Dubai International Stadium will host the final if India progress to the summit clash, while Pakistan will host the final if India fail to qualify.
Indian Champions Trophy Schedule:
| Date | Matching | Place of action |
|---|---|---|
| February 20 | Bangladesh vs India | Dubai |
| February 23 | Pakistan vs India | Dubai |
| March 2 | New Zealand vs India | Dubai |
