Report: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final Could Be Shifted Outside Pakistan If India Qualifies
Reports suggest the ICC Champions Trophy final could be moved to the UAE if India qualifies, despite Pakistan holding the hosting rights.

Asela MadhusankaEditor
Posted - 2024-10-08T22:16:42+06:00
Updated - 2024-10-08T22:16:42+06:00
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final, scheduled to be held in Pakistan soil, could see a change in venue at the last minute if India qualifies for the final clash. Although Pakistan holds the hosting rights for the tournament, reports from Telegraph.co.uk suggest that the final could be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Dubai emerging as the likely venue for the much-anticipated match.
At present, Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host the final on March 9, while the National Stadium in Karachi and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host other matches during the event. However, due to political tensions between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has repeatedly stated that India's participation in the tournament depends on approval from the Indian government.
India has not toured Pakistan since 2008, and the two countries have only faced each other in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup. Despite this, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains confident that India will travel to Pakistan for the event. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi stated, “I don’t see any reason for India to postpone or cancel their visit to Pakistan. All the teams, including India, will come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.”
While the ICC has not been formally notified about India’s non-participation, preparations continue for a potential India vs. Pakistan showdown, slated for March 1 in Lahore. If India qualifies for the final, Dubai could host the match to ensure both countries' participation in the tournament without political obstacles.