The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly dismissed media reports suggesting that the redevelopment of three stadiums for next year’s Champions Trophy will not be completed on time. While acknowledging that some domestic and bilateral matches may be affected by the ongoing construction, the PCB has assured fans that the Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 19 to March 9, 2025, will proceed as planned.
The three stadiums undergoing revamping are the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the National Stadium in Karachi, and the Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. The PCB aims to bring these venues up to international standards, ensuring a world-class experience for players and spectators alike.
The PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, inspected the renovations at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Monday and emphasized that significant work remains to be done. He also stressed that the Champions Trophy remains a top priority for the PCB and that the necessary infrastructure improvements will be completed in time.
The PCB has appointed the UK’s BDP Pattern, a renowned architecture company, to oversee the infrastructure enhancements at its cricket stadiums. The organization is committed to creating modern and efficient facilities that meet the demands of international cricket.
While the ongoing construction work may necessitate shifting some domestic and bilateral matches, the PCB has clarified that this will not affect the Champions Trophy. The tournament, which features eight of the world’s best cricket teams, is a major event for the PCB and will be hosted with the utmost professionalism and dedication.
Pakistan’s victory in the last Champions Trophy, held in England in 2017, marked a significant achievement for the team. The return of this prestigious tournament after a hiatus is a testament to the ICC’s commitment to staging a major international event annually. The PCB is fully prepared to host a memorable and successful Champions Trophy in 2025, providing fans with a thrilling spectacle of international cricket.
