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Lahore, 8 January 2025: Excitement is building across Pakistan as preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 move forward at full speed. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shared updates about the progress at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Bank Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. These venues are undergoing major upgrades to ensure a world-class experience for players, officials, and fans.
Major Upgrades at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore
The iconic Gaddafi Stadium is being transformed to welcome cricket fans from around the globe.
- Increased Capacity: The seating capacity has been expanded to accommodate 35,000 spectators.
- Modern Seating: New chairs have been installed throughout the stadium.
- Enhanced Lighting: 480 state-of-the-art LED lights have been installed, improving visibility for live broadcasts and fans.
- Replay Screens: Two giant digital replay screens (80×30 feet and 22×35 feet) will be installed next week.
- Hospitality Enclosures: A brand-new hospitality enclosure for players and officials will be operational by 25 January.
The stadium is expected to reopen by the last week of January, ready to host matches with advanced facilities and unmatched comfort.
Improvements at National Bank Stadium in Karachi
Karachi’s National Bank Stadium has also seen remarkable upgrades to prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy:
- New Hospitality Area: A special enclosure for players and officials has been built at the University End.
- Better Lighting: Over 350 LED lights have been added for optimal visibility.
- Replay Screens: Two digital replay screens are already in place.
- Spectator Comfort: 5,000 new chairs have been installed for fans.
These changes aim to make the venue one of the best in the region for cricket events.
Upgrades at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
While Lahore and Karachi are undergoing massive upgrades, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is also receiving attention:
- New Seating: Installation of 10,000 new chairs is underway.
- Hospitality Upgrades: Hospitality boxes are being improved for a better experience.
- Replay Screens: Two digital replay screens are being added.
These minor enhancements will ensure the stadium is up to international standards.
Tri-Nation ODI Series Moved to Lahore and Karachi
The PCB has relocated the upcoming tri-nation ODI series involving Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa to Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium. Originally planned for Multan, this change demonstrates the PCB’s confidence in the readiness of these venues.
Maintaining World-Class Playing Surfaces
During the upgrades, the PCB’s curators, led by Tony Hemming, have ensured that playing surfaces remain in excellent condition. No competitive matches have been held in Lahore and Karachi since the upgrades began, preserving the quality of the fields.
Commitment to Excellence
The PCB is determined to meet its 25 January 2025 deadline with over 250 workers working day and night. This effort reflects Pakistan’s commitment to hosting successful international cricket tournaments.
10 FAQs About ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Venue Preparations
- Which stadiums are being upgraded for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Bank Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium are being upgraded. - What improvements are being made at Gaddafi Stadium?
Some upgrades include increased seating, new lights, giant replay screens, and a hospitality enclosure. - How many people can Gaddafi Stadium accommodate now?
It can now host 35,000 spectators. - Why has the tri-nation ODI series been moved to Lahore and Karachi?
The PCB is confident these upgraded venues can host world-class events. - What changes have been made at National Bank Stadium?
New hospitality enclosures, 350 LED lights, replay screens, and 5,000 chairs have been added. - What upgrades are happening in Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium?
New seating, improved hospitality boxes, and replay screens are being installed. - Who is overseeing the maintenance of playing surfaces?
Tony Hemming and PCB curators are maintaining the fields. - When will Gaddafi Stadium reopen?
It is expected to reopen by the last week of January 2025. - How many workers are involved in the upgrades?
Over 250 workers are working day and night to complete the upgrades. - What does the PCB aim to achieve with these upgrades?
The PCB aims to provide a world-class experience for players, officials, and fans.
Pakistan: A Premier Cricketing Destination
With Lahore and Karachi at the forefront of cricketing excellence, Pakistan is ready to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. These upgrades ensure that the nation remains a favourite destination for international cricket events.
