The ICC announces the Champions Trophy 2025 warm-up schedule, setting the stage for an electrifying prelude to the marquee tournament. With the main event scheduled to begin on February 19, teams like Pakistan Shaheens, Afghanistan, South Africa, Bangladesh, and New Zealand will fine-tune their strategies in four day-night practice matches from February 14 to 17. Here’s everything you need to know about these preparatory games’ fixtures, squads, and significance.

Key Dates and Venues for Warm-Up Matches

The ICC announces the Champions Trophy 2025 warm-ups with a packed schedule across three iconic venues. The action kicks off on February 14 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, where Pakistan Shaheens face Afghanistan. New Zealand and Afghanistan clash on February 16 in Karachi, followed by a double-header on February 17: Pakistan Shaheens vs. South Africa in Karachi and Pakistan Shaheens vs. Bangladesh in Dubai.

All matches are day-night fixtures, starting at 2:30 PM IST (2:00 PM PST), allowing players to adapt to evening conditions ahead of the main tournament.

Pakistan’s Unique Squad Strategy

In a bold move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named three distinct Shaheens squads for the warm-ups, each led by different captains:

• Shadab Khan vs. Afghanistan (Lahore)
• Mohammad Hurraira vs. South Africa (Karachi)
• Mohammad Haris vs. Bangladesh (Dubai).

This strategy aims to test emerging talents like Arafat Minhas and Musa Khan while resting key players like Babar Azam for the main event. The squads blend experience and youth, offering a glimpse into Pakistan’s future cricket stars

Participating Teams and Squads

The ICC announces the Champions Trophy 2025 warm-ups with squads from five nations:

• Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
• Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed.
• South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen.
• New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra. 

Notably, India, Australia, and England have opted out due to prior commitments, relying on bilateral series for preparation.

Hybrid Venues and Their Significance

Matches will be held at:

• Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore: Historic venue with a 27,000 capacity.
• National Stadium, Karachi: Hosts two games, including Pakistan vs. South Africa.
• ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai: Neutral ground for Pakistan vs. Bangladesh.

This hybrid model mirrors the main tournament’s structure, where Dubai will host India’s matches and potentially the final if they qualify.

Why Warm-Up Matches Matter

The ICC announces the Champions Trophy 2025 warm-ups to serve critical purposes:

• Acclimatization: Teams adjust to Pakistan’s pitches and weather.
• Strategy Testing: Experiment with batting orders and bowling combinations.
• Player Fitness: Assess form and recover from injuries.

For Afghanistan and Bangladesh, these matches are vital to countering stronger opponents in the main event.

Live Streaming and Telecast Details

While Star Sports holds broadcasting rights for the main tournament, warm-up matches will not be streamed in India. Fans in Pakistan can watch via local broadcasters, and global audiences may access updates through official ICC platforms.

Looking Ahead: Champions Trophy 2025

The ICC announces the Champions Trophy 2025 main event will run from February 19 to March 9, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opener. The hybrid hosting model ensures matches involving India are held in Dubai, while Pakistan stages the final unless India qualifies.

The ICC announces Champions Trophy 2025 warm-up schedule as a critical precursor to cricket’s grand spectacle. With strategic squad rotations, hybrid venues, and high-stakes preparation, these matches set the tone for a fiercely competitive tournament. Stay tuned for live updates and expert analyses as the action unfolds!