ICC Champions Trophy 2025: PCB provides colossal update on stadiums' upgradation and renovation for CT
Published - 21 Jan 2025, 04:04 PM | Updated - 21 Jan 2025, 04:05 PM
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reassured that the three venues for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be fully ready by the end of January. Renovations at these venues are nearing completion, and the PCB has confirmed that the stadiums will be prepared in time for the 50-over tournament.
Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy in February and March. It is the first global tournament held in the country in 28 years. National Stadium in Karachi, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host matches. However, the Indian team will play all their matches in Dubai.
The venues in Pakistan for the tournament are currently undergoing renovations. These upgrades began in August 2024, with the initial goal to complete them by December 31. All these venues must be ready for the tournament and handed over to the International Cricket Council by February 12.
PCB Assures Stadiums for Champions Trophy Will Be Ready by January-End
The PCB confirmed that the renovation and upgrades of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore are on track, with the venue expected to be handed over by the end of the month. PCB spokesperson Sami Ul Hasan expressed confidence in the stadium's readiness to host the Champions Trophy.
“We are on schedule to complete the renovation and upgrade of the Gaddafi Stadium (in Lahore). The venue is expected to be handed over to us by the end of the month,” Sami Ul Hasan said was quoted as saying by Dawn.
“We have no doubt about Gaddafi Stadium’s operational readiness to host the Champions Trophy match between Australia and England on Feb 22.”
Champions Trophy Will Be Pakistan's First Global Cricket Event in 28 Years
The Champions Trophy in Pakistan, featuring eight teams, will be the country’s first global cricket event in 28 years. Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has undergone significant upgrades, including expanded seating to accommodate 35,000 spectators and newly constructed hospitality areas.
Renovations at the National Stadium in Karachi are expected to be completed by January 30. The spectator stands remain unchanged, but a new structure is being built at the University Road End. The stadium is also getting new digital screens and will host three Champions Trophy matches.
Pakistan to Begin Their Campaign Against New Zealand in Karachi
India and Pakistan have been placed in Group A for the Champions Trophy, alongside Bangladesh and New Zealand. Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan are placed in Group B. The semifinals are scheduled for March 4 and 5, with the final taking place on March 9.
Pakistan will begin their campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. Their second match will be against India in Dubai on February 23, followed by a game against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27. If they make it to the semifinals, Pakistan will play their knockout game in Lahore on March 5.
