ICC Champions Trophy 2025 faces blackout again; Karachi Stadium comes to a standstill

The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is just 50 days away, is encountering multiple challenges. Hosting rights have been resolved and the hybrid model finalized, but a new issue has emerged as construction work remains unfinished for the Champions Trophy 2025 despite initial deadlines.

International Cricket Council recently released the schedule for the Champions Trophy, which is set to begin on February 19. Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi will host the matches in Pakistan. Dubai has been designated as a neutral venue for all of Team India’s matches in the upcoming 50-over event.

There were concerns earlier that the event could be moved out of Pakistan entirely, but it was decided that the tournament would be played in a hybrid model. Group A consists of Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan, while Group B includes Australia, Afghanistan, England, and South Africa.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 In Jeopardy as Karachi Stadium Faces Construction Delays

As per a report by Cricket Pakistan, preparations for the Champions Trophy are facing setbacks due to incomplete renovations at the National Stadium in Karachi. The first phase of upgrades was initially set to be completed by December 15 and later extended to December 31, but it has not been finished.

The renovation of the National Stadium was approved by PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi during a Governing Board meeting. Stadium's structure work is finished, but finishing work on the floors is still ongoing, and the removal of fencing around the ground remains incomplete due to constant delays.

Mohsin Naqvi States Construction Work Expected to Extend into January

Mohsin Naqvi has stated that the construction work at the National Stadium in Karachi is expected to extend into January. The renovation project, which has a budget of PKR 3.5 billion, will undergo further phases to complete additional developments.

Renovation Details

- Ground Floor: Rooms for the ICC's Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping Units, along with match officials, are being constructed.

- First Floor: Two dressing rooms are set to be built.

- Second and Third Floors: Hospitality boxes are planned.

- Fourth Floor: A media center is scheduled for construction.

- Additional Features: The replacement of the old scoreboard with new digital screens and the installation of modern LED lights are part of the first phase.

National Stadium in Karachi to Host Tri-Series Between Pakistan New Zealand and South Africa

A tri-series between Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa has been planned at the National Stadium in Karachi to assess the stadium’s readiness for the ICC Champions Trophy. The National Stadium will host three matches during the Champions Trophy 2025.

Third match of the series is on February 12, and the final will take place on February 14. The upgrades to the stadium are intended to meet the international standards set by the ICC for the mega tournament.

Also read: Virat Kohli said sorry to Sam Konstas? Michael Clarke claims matter between duo is settled