The Pakistan Tri-Nation Series 2025 will feature Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa. This marks the first ODI tri-series between full-member nations in recent years, with an important role as a warm-up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting on February 19, 2025.
Teams Competing in the Tri-Series
The tri-series will see three top international teams Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa competing in a round-robin format. The series serves as vital preparation for the teams as they gear up for the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan
Pakistan, captained by Mohammad Rizwan, has selected a strong squad to take on their rivals. Key players include Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and returning opener Fakhar Zaman.
New Zealand
New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, will bring their best players, including Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Lockie Ferguson.
South Africa
Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, South Africa has selected a competitive squad, with key names like Gerald Coetzee and Kyle Verreynne. Additional players, such as Heinrich Klaasen and Keshav Maharaj, will join from the second match.
Tri-Series Schedule
The Pakistan Tri-Nation Series 2025 will consist of four matches: three round-robin games and one final. The matches will take place across two major stadiums in Pakistan: Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Stadium in Karachi. Here’s the detailed schedule:
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 8, 2025 | Pakistan vs New Zealand | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 2:30 PM |
| Feb 10, 2025 | New Zealand vs South Africa | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 10:00 AM |
| Feb 12, 2025 | Pakistan vs South Africa | National Stadium, Karachi | 2:30 PM |
| Feb 14, 2025 | Final (Top 2 teams) | National Stadium, Karachi | 2:30 PM |
Note: The National Stadium in Karachi is sometimes referred to as the National Bank Stadium in official sources.
Connection to ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The tri-series plays a crucial role in helping teams adapt to the subcontinental conditions they will face during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
Squad Continuity
Pakistan has kept the same 15-member squad for both the tri-series and the Champions Trophy. This decision allows players to maintain consistency and match readiness. Notable players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Fakhar Zaman will be key to Pakistan’s strategy.
Stadium Upgrades
The stadiums in Lahore and Karachi have undergone renovations to meet ICC standards for the Champions Trophy. These improvements include new LED floodlights and additional seating to enhance the fan experience.
Squads Breakdown
Pakistan Squad
- Batters: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir
- All-rounders: Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha
- Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed (spin)
- Wicketkeepers: Usman Khan
New Zealand Squad
- Key Players: Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Rachin Ravindra
South Africa Squad
- For 1st Match: Gerald Coetzee, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder
- From 2nd Match: Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj
Broadcast Details (India)
Fans in India can watch the matches on Sony Sports Ten 5 and stream them live through the SonyLIV app or website.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Importance: This tri-series offers a valuable opportunity for teams to test their combinations and strategies in match conditions before the ICC Champions Trophy.
- Player Form: Pakistan enters the series on a high note, following a 3-0 ODI series win over South Africa in December 2024.
- Venue Overview: Lahore will host the first two matches, while Karachi will stage the final two, including the championship match.
For more updates, check the official PCB announcement or visit Cricbuzz.