As the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy draws closer, the excitement over Pakistan hosting the prestigious tournament has been tempered by concerns over stadium preparations. The condition of the country's stadiums, originally held in Pakistan – Karachi's National Bank Stadium, Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium – has left people shocked, as the renovation work is still not complete. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is under immense pressure to meet the ICC's stringent standards amid reports of incomplete plasterwork, incomplete seating and substandard facilities.
Also read: Probable teams of India, Pakistan, Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Bangladesh for Champions Trophy 2025 – in pictures
PCB responded: Preparations will be completed within the deadline
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In view of the growing concerns, the PCB has moved swiftly to address the situation. In a bold move, the upcoming ODI tri-series involving Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa has been shifted from Multan to Karachi and Lahore. The decision reflects the PCB's confidence that both Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium are nearing completion of their significant upgrades. The renovations, scheduled to begin in August 2024, were originally planned to be completed by December 31, but delays have hampered progress. While some stadiums are still undergoing construction, the PCB has assured that the work is progressing rapidly and will be completed by the end of January.
The PCB's decision to shift the tri-series to these two venues is a clear message that the board is fully committed to providing a world-class experience for the players, officials and fans. Reports of the dismal state of the stadium raise concerns Despite the PCB being optimistic, reports from sources close to the situation paint a very dire picture. According to a Times of India report, some stadiums are still not ready, with significant work still remaining in several key areas. Notably, the plastering of Gaddafi Stadium is still incomplete, and important aspects such as floodlight installation, seating arrangements and facility upgrades are still in progress. Sources cited weather delays as a contributing factor, making it difficult to meet the original deadline.
The ICC, which expects host countries to hand over the venues in advance for inspection and quality checks, has expressed concern over the slow pace of work. If the stadiums do not meet the required standards by February 12, there is a strong possibility that the entire Champions Trophy could be shifted to the UAE. This scenario would be a major blow to Pakistan's hopes of hosting its first global cricket event since 1996, when it co-hosted the ODI World Cup.
Hybrid format: India's matches fixed in Dubai
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the ongoing dispute between the BCCI and the PCB, which has led to the adoption of a hybrid model for India's matches in the tournament. As per the agreement, all India's matches, including the knockout games, will be played in Dubai, which is a neutral venue. Although the move was a direct result of security concerns, it also highlights the challenges Pakistan faced while preparing to host the tournament.
PCB's optimism amid increasing speculation
Despite growing concerns, the PCB is optimistic that the stadiums will be ready in time for the Champions Trophy. The renovation of Gaddafi Stadium includes a significant upgrade to the seating capacity, which now stands at 35,000, and the installation of 480 state-of-the-art LED lights to enhance broadcast quality for audiences around the world. With the tri-series starting in late January, the PCB hopes to clear up any doubts once the first ball is bowled.
However, the final inspection of the venues by the ICC will be the final test. Now with a little more than a month left, there is pressure on Pakistan to perform well. With all eyes on the cricket world, only time will tell if the PCB will be able to pull off a miracle and ensure that the 2025 Champions Trophy remains in Pakistan.
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