With the 2025 Champions Trophy drawing near, cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament, which is set to be hosted by Pakistan. Known as one of the premier ODI tournaments, the Champions Trophy has always generated excitement among cricket enthusiasts.
Since its debut as the Knockout Cup in 1998, the tournament has showcased thrilling cricket, and the participating teams are known for their rigorous preparations.
The upcoming Champions Trophy will feature eight teams: Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and the fierce rivals India and Pakistan. As the tournament approaches, let’s take a look at how many matches each team will play leading up to the event.
India
Under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, India has had a challenging run in ODIs recently, including a series loss to Sri Lanka. Before the Champions Trophy, India has only three ODIs scheduled against England at home.
Pakistan
In contrast to India, Pakistan has a more extensive schedule. Led by Babar Azam, they will have a busy lead-up to the Champions Trophy with three ODIs against Australia, followed by a series of three games against Zimbabwe. Additionally, Pakistan will face South Africa in three ODIs and participate in a Tri-series with New Zealand, totaling at least eleven matches before the Champions Trophy, barring any additional games in the Tri-series final.
Australia
Australia’s preparation involves eight ODIs: five against England and three against Pakistan at home, providing them ample opportunity to gear up for the Champions Trophy.
England
England, captained by Jos Buttler, will play eleven ODIs in preparation. This includes a five-match series against Australia and three ODIs each against India and the West Indies.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s schedule includes just three ODIs against the West Indies, giving them a shorter window to prepare compared to other teams.
As the tournament date approaches, the performance in these upcoming matches will be crucial for all teams aiming to secure their place in the Champions Trophy.