With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, cricket fans are eagerly awaiting a series of high-intensity warm-up matches. These games will be crucial for five participating teams, helping them fine-tune their strategies and adapt to conditions ahead of the main tournament, which kicks off on February 19 in Lahore.
Unlike past ICC events, where all teams played warm-up matches, this year’s Champions Trophy will see only five of the eight teams—Pakistan, Afghanistan, New Zealand, South Africa, and Bangladesh—participate in warm-up games.
India, Australia and England Skip Warm-Ups
India, Australia, and England will head straight into the tournament without warm-up matches due to their ongoing international commitments. The Indian team is arriving late after wrapping up an ODI series against England, while Australia will conclude a two-match ODI series in Sri Lanka on February 14.
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Pakistan Shaheens to Play Multiple Matches
In a strategic move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named three different Pakistan Shaheens squads for the warm-up fixtures. This decision allows a wider pool of players to gain exposure and match experience.
February 14, Lahore: Shadab Khan will lead the squad against Afghanistan at Gaddafi Stadium.
February 17, Karachi: Mohammad Hurraira will captain the side against South Africa at the National Stadium.
February 17, Dubai: Mohammad Haris will lead the squad against Bangladesh at the ICC Cricket Academy.
Warm-Up Schedule and Venues
Cricket fans can look forward to four thrilling warm-up matches, played under lights in three venues: Lahore, Karachi, and Dubai.
February 14: Pakistan Shaheens vs Afghanistan – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
February 16: New Zealand vs Afghanistan – National Stadium, Karachi.
February 17: Pakistan Shaheens vs South Africa – National Stadium, Karachi.
February 17: Pakistan Shaheens vs Bangladesh – ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai.
All matches will begin at 2:30 PM IST (2:00 PM PST).
With these warm-up clashes, teams will get a final chance to assess their strengths and weaknesses before the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 officially begins.
