Key points
- Pakistan’s musical superstar Atif Aslam to enthral fans with live performance
- Pakistan Air Force prepares for breathtaking aerial show
- Cricket icons will partake in an exclusive panel discussion
ISLAMABAD: The cricketing world is on the brink of an exhilarating climax as the spectacular opening ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to unfold this evening (Sunday) at the Diwan-e-Aam of Lahore Fort.
Bathed in the grandeur of Pakistan’s rich cultural setting, this event promises a mesmerising fusion of cricketing excellence and artistic brilliance. With revered cricketing legends, dignitaries from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and passionate fans coming together, the night is destined to be unforgettable.
Building the excitement further, cricket icons will partake in an exclusive panel discussion, reminiscing and sharing their wisdom with enthusiasts from every corner of the globe.
The evening’s centrepiece will be a riveting performance by Pakistan’s musical superstar, Atif Aslam, who will captivate the audience with the official tournament anthem, igniting anticipation for the thrilling matches to come.
Full swing
Meanwhile, preparations are in full throttle, with the Pakistan Air Force ready to dazzle attendees with awe-inspiring aerial displays, ensuring the ceremony launches with unparalleled grandeur.
Beyond Lahore, the cricket festivities will illuminate the stadiums of Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Dubai.
The tournament will launch on February 19 (Wednesday), featuring an opening clash in the bustling port city between Pakistan and New Zealand, right after a brief ceremony at the National Bank Cricket Stadium.
In the meantime, the Indian team has landed in Dubai, where Bangladesh is already gearing up for the grand event. The two teams will square off on February 20.
Before that, the Tigers will face off against Pakistan’s Shaheens in a practice match on February 17. Moreover, the Afghanistan team is set to engage in their second practice match against New Zealand in Karachi today.
Yet, the most eagerly awaited encounter remains the high-stakes rivalry between Pakistan and India, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
Champions Trophy schedule
February 19, Pakistan v New Zealand, Karachi
February 20, Bangladesh v India, Dubai, UAE
February 21, Afghanistan v South Africa, Karachi
February 22, Australia v England, Lahore
February 23, Pakistan v India, Dubai
February 24, Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi
February 25, Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi
February 26, Afghanistan v England, Lahore
February 27, Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
February 28, Afghanistan v Australia, Lahore
March 1, South Africa v England, Karachi
March 2, New Zealand v India, Dubai, UAE
March 4, Semi-final 1, Dubai, UAE
March 5, Semi-final 2, Lahore
March 9, Final, Lahore (unless India qualify, when it will be played in Dubai)
March 10, Reserve
