ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has announced that the upgrade of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be completed on 25 January, with a grand inauguration planned for January 27.
During a media interaction at the stadium, he hoped the upgrade would be finalized on time, saying that the inauguration would feature several prominent personalities.
According to Pakistan’s state-run news agency APP, Mohsin Naqvi was informed on the progress of work during his visit to the stadium.
ICC Champions trophy
Earlier, Mohsin Naqvi conducted a detailed visit to the stadium on Monday to review the progress of the renovation project. During the visit, he also inspected the construction work across all areas of the facility, including the main building’s floors, and walked up to the top tiers of the general enclosures to personally assess the improved view of the ground.
“This project is advancing swiftly despite adverse weather conditions. We are committed to delivering a fully renovated and modernised Gaddafi Stadium before the ICC Champions Trophy. It will stand as a symbol of excellence and pride for Pakistan cricket,” said Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi.
The stadium is set to emerge as a world-class facility with a seating capacity exceeding 34,000. Installation of brand-new scoreboards on both sides of the stadium is also underway.
State-of-the-art floodlights
The installation of state-of-the-art floodlights is in its final phase, ensuring unparalleled visibility for players and spectators alike after sunset.
Additionally, enhancements in general enclosures have improved the ground view, providing a superior experience for cricket fans.
Expressing his satisfaction with the progress, Chairman PCB lauded the efforts of the workers and acknowledged their dedication to maintaining the project’s momentum despite challenging winter conditions and dense fog.
He also lauded the remarkable transformation and noted the improved fan experience from the general enclosures.
Trophy schedule
Earlier, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the schedule for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, whereas the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was confirmed as neutral venue for India’s matches.
The 15-match, eight-team mega-event returns to the cricket calendar for the first time since the last edition was staged in 2017, with defending champions Pakistan hosting their first international cricket tournament since 1996.
The thrilling 19-day tournament, in which every game counts in the bid to claim the iconic Champions Trophy white jackets, will see Bangladesh, India, New Zealand and Pakistan form Group A with Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa in Group B, said the ICC.
The stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi will host the matches in Pakistan, while Dubai will also host some matches.
