PCB Gears Up for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with Major Stadia Upgrades
Preparations in Full Swing
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 are advancing rapidly. Renovation work at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi is nearing completion. The upgraded venues will host matches, promising an exceptional experience for players and fans.
The PCB has also confirmed the relocation of the upcoming tri-nation ODI series involving Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa to these venues. Originally scheduled for Multan, this decision underscores the PCB’s confidence in the readiness of these state-of-the-art facilities. Further details on the series will be shared soon.
- ICC Champions Trophy 2025 preparations progressing steadily.
- Tri-nation ODI series moved to Lahore and Karachi.
- Multan replaced as the host venue due to ongoing upgrades.
Upgrades at Gaddafi Stadium
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, is undergoing significant renovations to enhance its capacity and facilities.
- Increased Seating: New chairs raise the stadium capacity to 35,000.
- Lighting Improvements: Installation of 480 LED lights for enhanced broadcast quality.
- Digital Replay Screens: Two large replay screens (80×30 feet and 22×35 feet) will be installed next week.
- Player Comfort: A new hospitality enclosure for players and officials will be operational by 25 January 2025.
These enhancements aim to make Gaddafi Stadium a premier venue for international cricket. The inauguration is planned for the last week of January.
Upgrades at National Bank Stadium
The National Bank Stadium in Karachi is also undergoing transformative upgrades.
- Enhanced Visibility: Installation of 350 LED lights for high-quality broadcast coverage.
- Replay Screens: Two replay screens are already functional.
- Spectator Comfort: 5,000 new chairs have been installed for improved seating.
- Player Enclosures: A new hospitality area at the University End is now ready.
These updates ensure that the venue is equipped to meet international standards and deliver a memorable experience.
Minor Upgrades at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
While major efforts focus on Lahore and Karachi, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is receiving minor but impactful enhancements.
- New Seating: 10,000 chairs are being installed.
- Digital Replay Screens: Two replay screens are being added.
- Hospitality Boxes: Upgraded to improve comfort for spectators and officials.
These touch-ups aim to elevate Rawalpindi’s standing as a high-quality venue for international cricket.
Focus on Playing Surfaces
Maintaining high-quality pitches is a top priority for the PCB. Under the guidance of Tony Hemming, PCB curators are ensuring the health and freshness of outfields. To facilitate this, competitive cricket has been temporarily paused in Lahore and Karachi, while Rawalpindi last hosted a match late last year.
PCB’s Commitment to Excellence
With over 250 workers working around the clock, the PCB is committed to completing all renovations by 25 January 2025. These upgrades are designed to deliver a world-class cricketing experience and cement Pakistan’s reputation as a premier cricketing destination.