Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, just 50 days away, faces several challenges despite finalized hosting rights and the hybrid model. Construction delays at Karachi’s National Stadium have raised concerns, with renovations falling behind initial deadlines.
The International Cricket Council recently announced the tournament schedule, set to begin on February 19. Matches will take place in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, while Dubai will serve as the neutral venue for all of Team India’s matches. Earlier doubts about hosting the event in Pakistan were resolved with the adoption of the hybrid model.
Group A includes Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan, while Group B features Australia, Afghanistan, England, and South Africa. However, preparations at Karachi’s National Stadium, which will host three matches during the tournament, are delayed. According to Cricket Pakistan, the first phase of renovations, originally slated for completion by December 15 and later extended to December 31, remains unfinished.
PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi approved the renovation project, budgeted at PKR 3.5 billion, during a Governing Board meeting. While structural work is complete, finishing work on floors and the removal of fencing around the ground are still in progress. Naqvi confirmed that construction is expected to continue into January, with further phases planned to meet ICC standards.
Renovation Highlights
- Ground Floor: Rooms for ICC’s Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping Units and match officials.
- First Floor: Construction of two dressing rooms.
- Second and Third Floors: Planned hospitality boxes.
- Fourth Floor: A media center under development.
- Additional Features: Replacement of the old scoreboard with digital screens and installation of modern LED lights.
A tri-series involving Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa has been scheduled at the National Stadium to evaluate its readiness for the Champions Trophy. The third match is set for February 12, with the final on February 14. These upgrades aim to align the stadium with ICC standards for the upcoming mega event.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
