The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a significant change in its plans by shifting the upcoming tri-nation series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, from Multan Cricket Stadium to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Stadium in Karachi.
While the switch to these upgraded venues is seen as a positive move, as both stadiums are undergoing renovations to meet international standards ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March, the PCB’s frequent changes have raised concerns regarding its management consistency.
The PCB’s recent history has been marked by several last-minute changes, including a sudden shift in the venue for the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) player draft, which was originally set for Gwadar on January 11 but is now moved to Lahore, with a new start date of January 13. Additionally, several changes have been made to the domestic schedule for the 2024-25 season, and multiple roles in coaching and national selection have been altered over the past 11 months.
In an official statement, the PCB confirmed that preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 were progressing well. “The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi are nearing completion to host tournament matches,” the PCB said. The board assured fans and media that all upgrades were on track to be finished by the designated deadlines.
The relocation of the tri-nation ODI series to these two venues, originally set for Multan, reflects the PCB’s confidence in the readiness of the upgraded stadiums. The board emphasized that the improved venues will provide a world-class experience for players, officials, and spectators, with more details about the series to be announced in the future.
Regarding the upgrades at Gaddafi Stadium, the PCB highlighted the increased spectator capacity of 35,000, with new seating throughout the venue. The stadium will also feature 480 modern LED lights to enhance broadcast quality, as well as two large digital replay screens scheduled to be installed next week. The stadium is expected to be inaugurated in the last week of January.
Similarly, the National Bank Stadium has undergone significant improvements, including the addition of a new hospitality enclosure for players and officials at the University End. The venue has also installed 350 LED lights to improve broadcast visibility, along with two digital replay screens and 5,000 new seats to ensure greater comfort.
At Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, minor upgrades are being made, such as the installation of 10,000 new chairs, enhancements to hospitality boxes, and two digital replay screens. These improvements are being made to meet international standards for future events.
The PCB also reassured the public that its curators, under the guidance of Tony Hemming, have been maintaining the playing surfaces throughout the renovations. “No competitive cricket has been played in Lahore and Karachi since the work began, while Rawalpindi hosted a match late last year,” the PCB stated.
Meanwhile, an International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation arrived in Karachi to review preparations for the Champions Trophy on Wednesday. The delegation will visit the National Bank Stadium to assess tournament arrangements and inspect ongoing construction work, including a five-story building being developed at the venue.
