Pakistan Set to Upgrade Major Cricket Stadiums for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

In a significant move to enhance the cricketing infrastructure in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced comprehensive plans to upgrade three of the country’s premier cricket stadiums: Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Arena, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. This initiative is part of Pakistan’s preparations to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, a marquee event that will place the nation at the center of the cricketing world.

The PCB has allocated a substantial budget of approximately PKR 12.80 billion for the renovation of these stadiums. The upgrades are aimed at bringing the facilities in line with international standards, ensuring they are capable of hosting such a prestigious event. Among the enhancements, new floodlights will be installed at both the Gaddafi Stadium and the National Bank Cricket Arena to improve visibility for night matches, a feature that will also enhance the experience for fans watching on television.

In Lahore, the Gaddafi Stadium will undergo a significant transformation, with plans to remodel the hospitality boxes, improve seating arrangements, and ensure unobstructed views of the field, similar to the standards seen at Dubai’s cricket stadiums. The stadium’s main building will also be restructured to optimize space and improve facilities for both players and spectators.

International Collaboration and Timeline

The PCB has collaborated with BDP Pattern, a UK-based architectural firm renowned for designing state-of-the-art stadiums globally. The firm has already presented design proposals that have been well-received by the PCB. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed his commitment to overseeing the project personally, ensuring its completion before the Champions Trophy begins on February 19, 2025.

Hosting the entire ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan is not only a matter of pride but also a strategic move by the PCB. By upgrading these venues, Pakistan aims to showcase its capability to host large-scale international events, further solidifying its place on the global cricketing map.

The preparations reflect Pakistan’s determination to deliver an event that meets and exceeds international expectations, marking a significant milestone in the country’s cricketing history.