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England to Face Australia in Champions Trophy Opener in Lahore

December, 25, 2024-01:21

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England to Face Australia in Champions Trophy Opener in Lahore

England will kick off their bid for a first-ever Champions Trophy title with a thrilling match against Ashes rivals Australia in Lahore on February 22. Jos Buttler’s side will then play Afghanistan four days later at the same venue, before heading to Karachi for their final Group A fixture against South Africa on March 1.

The full fixture list, released on Christmas Eve, confirmed that while the tournament will be held in Pakistan, all of India’s matches—including the final on March 9, should they qualify—will be played in Dubai. Defending champions Pakistan will face India in Dubai on February 23, the day after the England-Australia clash.

Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium is set to host the final on March 9, unless India qualifies for it, in which case the final will also be held in Dubai. The hybrid model of the tournament was introduced after India opted out of playing in Pakistan due to ongoing political tensions between the two countries.

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed satisfaction over the resolution, stating that the agreement was reached on the principles of equality and respect. He thanked the ICC members for their constructive role in the process, emphasizing Pakistan's commitment to hosting international cricket at the highest level.