LAHORE: Cricket fever is reaching its peak as the highly anticipated opening ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place at the historic Diwan-e-Aam in Lahore Fort this evening (Sunday).

With Pakistan’s rich heritage as its backdrop, the grand event promises an unforgettable blend of cricketing excitement and cultural brilliance. The occasion will be graced by renowned cricket personalities, top PCB officials, and passionate fans, making it a night to remember.

To further elevate the excitement, legendary cricketers will participate in a special panel discussion, offering insights and reminiscing about past tournaments. A major highlight of the night will be a live performance by Pakistan’s celebrated singer Atif Aslam, who will present the official tournament anthem, adding to the thrill of the competition.

Meanwhile, preparations for the event are in full swing, with the Pakistan Air Force taking part in rehearsals, featuring an awe-inspiring fly-past to ensure a spectacular kickoff.

As Lahore prepares to welcome the cricketing world, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises an electrifying beginning. Along with Lahore, the action-packed tournament will also take place in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Dubai.

The competition will officially start on February 19 (Wednesday), with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi. The game will be preceded by a brief ceremony at the National Bank Cricket Stadium.

On the other hand, the Indian team has landed in Dubai, where Bangladesh has already begun training for the mega event. The two teams are set to face off in the tournament on February 20.

Before the official matches commence, Pakistan’s Shaheens will take on Bangladesh in a practice match on February 17, while Afghanistan will play their second warm-up game against New Zealand in Karachi today.

However, the most highly anticipated match of the tournament remains the high-stakes battle between arch-rivals 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)