DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially set the stage for the much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 with the release of a mesmerizing video, heightening the excitement for the tournament set to be hosted in Pakistan next month.
The video, shared across the ICC's social media platforms, highlights the triumphant return of the iconic 'white jacket,' a symbol of glory that will be awarded to the players of the tournament-winning team.
The jacket, steeped in prestige, is central to the campaign, symbolizing the honor of being crowned champions.
Adding to the video’s grandeur is the narration by legendary former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram, whose powerful voice underscores the significance of the event.
The visuals showcase a tailor meticulously stitching the White Jacket, featuring "Champions Trophy 2025 Pakistan" embroidered in golden thread on the front pocket, while dynamic depictions of the competing teams are interspersed throughout.
Cricketing superstars such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Amir, Rohit Sharma, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Jos Buttler and Glenn Maxwell make appearances in the video, alongside archival footage that celebrates the rich legacy of the game.
It is pertinent to mention that the eight-team tournament, consisting of 15 matches, will run from February 19 to March 9, across three venues – Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi – in Pakistan, with some matches in Dubai.
The eight teams are divided into two groups. Group A features Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B is comprised of Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia.
Hosts Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser on February 19 in Karachi, while the blockbuster clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
Pakistan will host a total of 10 matches in the country, while four matches, including all three of India’s group-stage matches and the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.
The final of the tournament is scheduled to be played in Lahore, but if India qualifies, it will also be held in Dubai.
Furthermore, a reserve day has been allocated for the final clash as a precautionary measure to combat any weather-related hindrances.
- Wasim Akram
