Cricket fans’ frenzy as tickets for high-demand matches vanish quickly, with soaring travel costs expected
The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 is already proving to be a major event for cricket fans worldwide, as tickets for the India-Pakistan match in Dubai were snapped up within minutes of going on sale. The excitement began when tickets for India’s matches at the tournament were released at 4 p.m., setting off a frenzied rush. Within just two minutes, a fan found themselves behind over 111,000 users in the virtual queue.
Despite waiting in line for nearly an hour, ticket buyers hoping for seats at the iconic India-Pakistan clash were met with disappointment. By 4:56 p.m., every ticket category, including the premium ‘Platinum’ and ‘Grand Lounge’ tickets, had sold out. The demand was so overwhelming that the online platform could not keep up with the surge.
Sharjah-based Pakistani expat Zarlish Kamil, a long-time fan of India-Pakistan matches, was among those left empty-handed. She expressed her disappointment but understood the demand, sharing that she had attended every India-Pakistan match she could remember.
Similarly, Namita Aneesh, an Indian expat in Sharjah, faced ticket challenges but managed to secure a general admission ticket for the India-New Zealand match. While saddened to miss the high-profile India-Pakistan game, she was excited about witnessing India’s clash with New Zealand.
Dubai, while not the host country for the tournament, is serving as a neutral venue after the Indian cricket board (BCCI) opted out of traveling to Pakistan due to government advice. The Dubai International Stadium will host three India matches, including the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan on February 23, and the first semifinal on March 4.
With limited tickets left and rising airfares, cricket enthusiasts may continue to feel the impact of this highly anticipated event, as they seek opportunities to witness the thrilling action live.
