There is growing excitement around the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19. Indian team captain Rohit Sharma is expected to visit Pakistan ahead of the event to take part in a photoshoot and press conference organized by the ICC.
There was initially 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 managed to find a solution, ensuring that both nations would be offered a neutral venue when hosting ICC tournaments.
Will Rohit Sharma travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
The host country usually organizes a large event with all participating captains. This event includes a photo session of all the captains and a press conference where the skippers share their expectations for the tournament. For the next Champions Trophy, all eight captains should be present.
The official confirmation of Rohit Sharma’s trip to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy is yet to be announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). There is speculation that he might attend the event’s captains’ photoshoot and press conference, organized by the host country, Sports Tak reported, but nothing has been confirmed as of yet.
Rohit Sharma never visited Pakistan during his international career
It is worth mentioning that Rohit Sharma has never visited Pakistan during his international career. If he travels, it would be a historic moment as it has been years since an Indian cricketer visited Pakistan for an international event.
The Indian team shares the record for most Champions Trophy titles, alongside Australia, with two victories. They shared the 2002 edition with Sri Lanka after weather conditions prevented a good match.
India’s second title came in 2013 when they beat England at Edgbaston. Notably, they were runners-up in 2017, losing to Pakistan by 180 runs, and in 2000, when they were beaten by New Zealand by four wickets.
India prepare for white-ball series against England at home
India are currently preparing for their white-ball series against England, comprising three ODIs before the Champions Trophy. The team is placed in Group A, alongside 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 played in Dubai, including their much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 23. Their final championship match is scheduled for March 2 against New Zealand.
If India qualifies for the semi-finals, they will play on March 4. The Dubai International Stadium will host the final if India qualifies for the summit clash, while Pakistan will host the final if India fail to qualify.
India Champions Trophy Schedule:
| Date | Match | Place |
|---|---|---|
| February 20 | Bangladesh vs India | Dubai |
| February 23 | Pakistan vs India | Dubai |
| March 2 | New Zealand vs India | Dubai |
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