Champions Trophy 2025 : India To Play Practice Match In Dubai Ahead Of ICC Event- Report

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As the much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 draws closer, teams are ramping up their preparations for the marquee ICC event. Several ODI matches are scheduled in the coming days to help teams gear up for the tournament.

Team India are also set to play a practice match ahead of their opening game against Bangladesh, slated for February 19. This warm-up encounter will provide valuable match experience and is considered crucial for India's preparation.

According to a report by Sports Tak, India's practice match is scheduled to take place in Dubai just a few days before their first group-stage game. While the date and opponent for the match are yet to be confirmed, an official announcement is expected shortly.

"Practice matches are yet to be announced, and training facilities are being worked out. But at least one game will be given to India for practice before the start of their competition. The team is yet not finalized'', the source told.

Following the warm-up fixture, India will kick off their campaign against Bangladesh. Their next match will be a high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23, with their final group-stage game against New Zealand on March 2.

Due to security concerns, the Indian government has opted against sending the team to Pakistan. As a result, all of India's matches will be hosted in Dubai, which has been designated as an alternate venue. Should India progress to the knockout stages, their remaining matches will also be held in Dubai.

India are placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, New Zealand, and hosts Pakistan. Meanwhile, Group B comprises Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.

As part of the preparations for the Champions Trophy, the Men in Blue will also play a 50-over series against England in February at home in Nagpur, Cuttack and Ahmedabad.