The Champions Trophy 2025 is going to start from today. This tournament is returning after eight years. The last time this tournament was played was in 2017, when Pakistan defeated India and became the champion.
Pakistan vs New Zealand – Tournament Opener in Karachi: It will start with the opening match between defending champions Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi on Wednesday.
The Champions Trophy tournament started after many troubles
Even before the start of the Champions Trophy, uncertainty, drama and behind-the-scenes activities have been seen about it. In this tournament, known as the ‘Mini World Cup’, eight teams will try their best for the title and will try to write a golden chapter in their cricket history.
India’s First Match Against Bangladesh in Dubai: The Indian team will start its campaign against Bangladesh on Thursday. All the matches of India will be held in Dubai while the rest of the teams will play in Pakistan.
The ICC’s Decision on Venue Split Between India and Pakistan: This is the first ICC tournament being held in Pakistan after the 1996 World Cup. India had refused to play in Pakistan due to security reasons.
Controversies & Challenges Before Champions Trophy 2025
ODI Cricket’s Relevance Amid T20 Popularity: There were many problems in organising this tournament in Pakistan. Amidst the ongoing debate on the relevance of ODI cricket, establishing the importance of this Champions Trophy tournament was also a challenge. It was difficult to find a place for it somewhere in the struggle between the popularity of T-20 cricket and commitment to the Test format.
First match between Pakistan and New Zealand
Rarely has any cricket event seen so much geopolitical tension, stubbornness of the two administrative boards of two major participants (India and Pakistan) and apprehensions about the preparations of the host stadiums. This brings back memories of the nineties when cricket in the subcontinent seemed like a hastily organized party. Once the captains of Pakistan and New Zealand come out for the toss of the first match, all these off-field matters will be sidelined.
Broadcast & Viewing Experience – What’s New?
ICC to Use 36 Cameras for Enhanced Fan Experience – The ICC said that 36 cameras will be used to improve the audience experience. The rotating camera will show the ground level view.
Indian Commentators in Champions Trophy 2025 Panel – Former captains Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri along with Dinesh Karthik and Harsha Bhogle are the four Indian experts in the ICC commentary panel for the tournament.
