Unlike the 2023 World Cup when captains' press conference and photoshoot took place, such events are unlikely to take place for the 2025 Champions Trophy. According to media reports, two teams are due to arrive late to Pakistan, due to which captains' meet and photoshoots faces cancellation.
As per reports by CricketPakistan.pk, Australia and England are set to arrive late for the eight-team tournament than planned. The Men in Yellow are scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on February 19, while the Englishmen are slated to land in the sub-continent nation on the 18th. The likes of New Zealand and South Africa will already be in Pakistan as they will square off in a tri-nation series with the hosts. Both Bangladesh and India will be in Dubai on February 15.
Australia and England will arrive late primarily due to their bilateral series in Sri Lanka and India, respectively. England's series in India finishes on February 12, while Australia have opted for a four-day rest before flying to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Both nations have also decided to skip warm-up matches scheduled for them.
Hosts Pakistan yet to announce squad for Champions Trophy and tri-nation series
Meanwhile, Pakistan is the only nation out of the eight yet to unveil their squad for the Champions Trophy and the tri-nation series. The uncertainty of the same is due to injury to explosive opener Saim Ayub.
The tri-series in Pakistan will take place from February 8 to 14, while the Champions Trophy commences from February 19. Defending champions Pakistan will start their campaign on the opening day against New Zealand.