Champions Trophy preparations on Track, confirms PCB

English , Snippets , Sports - کھیل اور کھلاڑی , / Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

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RKI Network

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) assured fans that preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 are progressing as planned. Media representatives toured the stadiums in Lahore and Karachi on Monday, highlighting the ongoing renovations.

This eight-team 50-over tournament will mark the first global cricket event hosted in Pakistan in 28 years. However, India will play its matches in Dubai due to political tensions.

The PCB spokesperson, Sami Ul Hasan, emphasized the readiness of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which is slated to host the high-profile match between Australia and England on February 22. “We are on schedule to complete the renovations and expect to receive the venue by the end of the month,” Hasan stated. The stadium now boasts a capacity of 35,000 and enhanced hospitality facilities.

Karachi’s National Stadium is also undergoing upgrades, with contractors confirming completion by January 30. While the spectator stands remain unchanged, a new building is being constructed at the University Road End. The stadium will feature modern digital screens and host three Champions Trophy matches and at least one tri-series game.

Lahore and Karachi are set to host a tri-nation series involving New Zealand and South Africa next month, serving as a readiness test for the Champions Trophy, scheduled to begin on February 19.

The PCB’s efforts aim to revive Pakistan’s reputation as a safe and capable host for international cricket, following years of limited home fixtures due to security concerns.