ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India and Bangladesh stars to arrive in Dubai by February 15

Dubai: With just weeks to go until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the excitement is reaching fever pitch. For Indian fans in the UAE, the thrill isn’t just about watching the matches — it’s about seeing their cricketing heroes up close as they prepare for the tournament in Dubai. As the countdown begins, all eyes are on Rohit Sharma’s men as they gear up for another shot at glory.

India’s preparations will kick into high gear after their final ODI against England in Ahmedabad on February 12. The team is expected to arrive in Dubai soon after, setting up camp ahead of their opening clash against Bangladesh on February 20. With stars like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and young talents Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill in the mix, fans in the UAE will have a front-row seat to India’s build-up for the tournament.

India’s Group A opponents in their opening match, Bangladesh, are also expected to arrive by February 15, Gulf News has leart.

India vs Pakistan: The showpiece encounter

While India’s group-stage campaign begins against Bangladesh, the fixture that will have the world holding its breath is their clash with Pakistan. The two cricketing giants, who now only meet in ICC events and continental championships, will once again renew their rivalry on February 23 in Dubai. India will also take on New Zealand in their final group match on March 2.

“The return of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a significant boost to cricket, adding depth and context to the One-Day format. This iconic tournament promises to reignite excitement among fans and players alike. India is ready to showcase its unique brand of cricket, with every player committed to bringing the trophy home again,” said Pandya in a tournament release.

Pakistan’s squad and title defence

Pakistan will enter the tournament as defending champions, with Mohammad Rizwan leading the side. The return of Fakhar Zaman is a major boost, as the left-handed opener memorably played a match-winning knock in the 2017 final against India — the last time this tournament was held.

Zaman’s century (114 off 106 deliveries) at The Oval helped Pakistan defeat India by 180 runs, securing their maiden Champions Trophy title. However, the team will be without rising star Saim Ayub, who suffered an ankle injury during Pakistan’s New Year Test in Cape Town.

Shaheen Shah Afridi emphasised the importance of the tournament for his team, saying: “For Pakistan, cricket is more than a game — it’s our passion, our pride, our identity, and as defending champions and tournament hosts, there’s everything to play for. I’m sure the whole of Pakistan is eagerly awaiting February 19. It’ll be a spectacle like no other.”

Ticket frenzy for India-Pakistan clash

The two-week tournament will see the world’s top eight teams compete in 15 high-stakes matches over 19 days, with each game playing a crucial role in the race for the prestigious title.

However, while excitement builds, fans are still waiting for ticket sales to open for the India-Pakistan showdown.

“Ticket information for the India matches to be played in Dubai on February 20, 23, and March 2 will follow shortly,” the statement added.

Tickets for the final, scheduled for March 9, will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the first semi-final in Dubai.

A tournament of high stakes

With India fine-tuning their preparations in Dubai and Pakistan looking to defend their crown, the stage is set for an electrifying Champions Trophy. Every team will be fighting for glory, but for India and Pakistan, the stakes are even higher. As the cricketing world watches, the countdown to February 19 continues — bringing with it the promise of unforgettable moments and intense rivalries.