Stadium Preparations in Pakistan Lag Behind for ICC Champions Trophy
Pakistan’s three key cricket stadiums—Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium—are far from ready to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, raising concerns just weeks before the tournament’s kickoff.
Despite efforts to complete upgrades, delays in construction and renovation have left the PCB and ICC scrambling to avoid a last-minute crisis.
Construction Delays Worry ICC
The ICC is reportedly increasingly concerned about the state of the stadiums and is preparing to send a taskforce to assess the situation. A source from the Times of India highlighted the extent of the delays, saying,
“It’s a very disappointing picture. All three stadiums are far from ready. It’s not just renovations but full-scale construction underway, with work still pending on seats, floodlights, and even outfields.”
The initial deadline for stadium preparations was December 31, but with February 12 approaching, the pressure is mounting.
Why Are the Stadiums Delayed?
A source close to the situation pointed out several reasons behind the delays:
- Weather conditions have slowed down construction.
- Plaster and finishing work at Gaddafi Stadium is still pending.
- New enclosures and dressing rooms are yet to be completed.
The source stressed,
“You can’t have random enclosures for an ICC event. These are premium spaces that require time and effort to finish.”
Will the ICC Move the Tournament?
If the stadiums aren’t ready on time, the ICC may be forced to move the tournament to another country. The source added,
“It’s a no-brainer. If the PCB misses deadlines and venues don’t meet the ICC’s checklist, the tournament can’t be played in semi-ready stadiums. The next week is critical to avoid a last-minute relocation.”
The PCB is already under pressure after the BCCI forced India’s matches to be moved to the UAE, citing security concerns.
PCB’s Response: “We Will Be Ready”
In response to growing concerns, the PCB issued a statement assuring that all stadiums will be ready by January 25.
The PCB also announced that a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa will be held at Lahore and Karachi to test the stadiums before the Champions Trophy.
According to the PCB, over 250 workers are laboring round-the-clock to meet the new deadline. The Gaddafi Stadium is expected to receive a capacity boost, while Rawalpindi Stadium is undergoing minor changes.
“We are fully committed to ensuring all venues are ready to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025,” the PCB stated.
Key Challenges Ahead
| Venue | Current Status | Expected Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Gaddafi Stadium | Major construction ongoing | January 25, 2025 |
| National Stadium | New enclosures incomplete | February 2025 |
| Rawalpindi Stadium | Minor upgrades pending | January 2025 |
What’s Next?
The ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on February 19, with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match at the National Stadium, Karachi.
As the countdown begins, all eyes are on the PCB and ICC to see if they can pull off a miracle and ensure the tournament goes ahead smoothly. Will Pakistan be ready in time, or will the ICC be forced to make a tough call?
The next few weeks will decide the fate of this marquee cricket event in Pakistan.
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