Initial ICC Champions Trophy schedule leaked

Initial schedule of the ICC Champions Trophy has been leaked online with Pakistan kicking off the tournament against New Zealand.

The tournament is expected to begin on February 19 at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The opening ceremony is also scheduled at the venue.

Pakistan’s second match is set for February 24, where they will face Bangladesh in Rawalpindi.

The high-octane clash is scheduled on March 01 in Dubai. India will be kicking off its campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh.

Rohit Sharma’s men will face New Zealand on February 23 in Dubai.

The new Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host its first match on February 22, with Australia taking on England. Afghanistan will also lock horns against England on February 25 at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Australia and South Africa will square off on February 26 in Rawalpindi.

Bangladesh and New Zealand will be playing on February 27 in Lahore, and Afghanistan against Australia on February 28 in Rawalpindi.

The final group-stage match will be between South Africa and England on March 2 in Rawalpindi.

The first semi-final is scheduled for March 5, the second for March 6, with the final match on March 9.

According to the proposed schedule, both semi-finals are expected to be held in Pakistan. However, If India advance to the semi-finals and final, these matches will be hosted in Dubai.

However, if India does not make it to the semi-finals, the final will be moved to Lahore.