2025 Champions Trophy Preparation: Varied Schedules and Franchise League Influence

The 2025 Champions Trophy, taking place from February 19 to March 9, will feature eight teams with differing preparatory schedules. The rise of franchise leagues has affected the frequency of ODI and T20I matches, despite the structured World Test Championship schedule for Test matches.

The upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy, set for February 19 to March 9, will see an array of preparation strategies from the eight participating teams. The prominence of franchise leagues has notably influenced the number of ODI and T20I matches, even though the World Test Championship provides a structured schedule for Test cricket.

As per Wisden, Pakistan’s ODI preparation kicks off in November with a tour to Australia, followed by tours to Zimbabwe and South Africa in December, and New Zealand in January. They will then host New Zealand and South Africa for a triangular series in February, potentially taking their total matches to 16 or 17.

Afghanistan’s schedule remains lean, with only three ODIs against Zimbabwe in December, while a postponed Bangladesh series leaves their total uncertain. Australia has a busy schedule, touring the British Isles in September for eight ODIs and hosting Pakistan for three ODIs in November. Bangladesh’s and England’s schedules also include matches against other teams, while India will play three ODIs against England in January. New Zealand, with engagements against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, has one of the busiest schedules before the Trophy.

(ANI)