ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Everything You Need to Know

After eight years, the ICC Champions Trophy is back! The tournament begins on Wednesday in Karachi, with defending champions Pakistan facing New Zealand. This edition promises excitement, fierce rivalries, and possibly the last ICC ODI event for stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Here are eight key points about the tournament:

1. Pakistan Hosts an ICC Event After 29 Years

This is the first major ICC tournament in Pakistan since the 1996 World Cup, which the country co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka.

2. India’s Matches in UAE

Due to political tensions, India won’t play in Pakistan. Instead, all of India’s matches will be played in the UAE under a hybrid model.

3. Kohli & Rohit’s Last ICC ODI?

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma might retire from ODIs after this tournament. Will they lift one final ICC trophy, or will a new generation take over?

4. Afghanistan’s First Champions Trophy

Afghanistan has qualified for the tournament for the first time after finishing sixth in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Sri Lanka and the Netherlands did not qualify.

5. Injuries Hit Several Teams

Many key players are missing due to injuries. India will be without Jasprit Bumrah, while Australia has lost five players, including Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins.

6. Back After Eight Years

The Champions Trophy was discontinued after 2017 but is now making a comeback. Pakistan is hosting the first edition since its return.

7. Short and Intense Format

Each team plays only three group matches, and only the top two from each group will reach the semifinals. This format leaves no room for mistakes.

8. Pakistan Defends Its Title

Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, won the last Champions Trophy in 2017 by defeating India by 180 runs. However, only Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman remain from that squad.

With Pakistan and the UAE set to host thrilling matches, cricket fans can expect high drama, emotional farewells, and new champions. Will Kohli and Rohit go out on a high, or will a new team rise to the top?

Stay tuned for all the action!