The iconic Gaddafi Stadium, situated in Lahore, has undergone a stunning transformation ahead of the highly anticipated Pakistan Tri-Nation Series and the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently unveiled a captivating video showcasing the revamped venue, illuminated under floodlights, exuding grandeur and readiness for the upcoming white-ball extravaganza.
According to various sources, it was reported that the Pakistan Cricket Board may find it extremely challenging to have the venues ready in time for the ICC tournament. With these tournaments set to take place in February and March 2025, the modernized stadium is expected to provide a world-class experience for players and fans, reinforcing Lahore’s status as a premier cricketing destination.
For those unaware, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a substantial investment of PKR 12 billion to revamp the cricketing venues in preparation for the upcoming ICC tournament. However, as the January 31 deadline for completion looms large, the board finds itself under immense pressure to ensure the venues are fully functional in time.
While the Gaddafi Stadium has been successfully revamped and is ready for action, there have been no official updates regarding the progress of construction and development at other venues. With the deadline fast approaching, uncertainty looms over whether the remaining stadiums will be completed on time, raising concerns about their readiness for the upcoming ICC tournament.
A PCB official stated, “Look, the stadiums will be in a shape to host matches but the question is the PCB has promised everyone a world-class experience at these renovated venues for the Tri-Series and the Champions Trophy and whether they can deliver on that promise remains to be seen.”
Pakistan to invite New Zealand and South Africa for Tri-series
Before the commencement of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the hosts are reportedly planning to invite South Africa and New Zealand for a high-profile ODI tri-series. This series is expected to serve as a crucial preparatory event, allowing teams to familiarize themselves with the conditions while giving Pakistan an opportunity to fine-tune its squad ahead of the marquee tournament.
The tri-series will be played across all the venues that are set to host matches in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This will serve as a crucial test run for the stadiums, allowing the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to assess the facilities, pitch conditions, and overall preparedness ahead of the tournament. Additionally, it will provide teams with an opportunity to adapt to the playing conditions, ensuring a smoother transition into the highly anticipated ICC event.
