The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) showcased its readiness to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy by offering a media tour of stadiums in Lahore and Karachi. This marks the first global cricket tournament in Pakistan in 28 years, with the eight-team, 50-over event commencing on February 19. India, however, will play all their matches in Dubai due to political tensions between the two nations.
Stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi are undergoing significant upgrades to meet international standards. PCB spokesperson Sami Ul Hasan assured the timely completion of renovations at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, stating it will be ready to host the high-profile Champions Trophy clash between Australia and England on February 22. The stadium’s capacity has been increased to accommodate 35,000 spectators, with new hospitality areas also added.
The PCB is further bolstering preparations by organizing a tri-nation series featuring New Zealand and South Africa next month in Lahore and Karachi, serving as a readiness test for the Champions Trophy.
In Karachi, renovation efforts at the National Bank Stadium are progressing rapidly and are expected to conclude by January 30. While the stadium’s spectator stands remain unchanged, a new building at the University Road End is under construction, alongside the installation of digital screens. The venue will host three Champions Trophy matches and at least one tri-nation series game.
This monumental event could signal a new era for cricket in Pakistan, which has been deemed unsafe for international tours since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team. Successful execution of the Champions Trophy could pave the way for more global events in the country.
