Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has announced that the ongoing renovations at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be completed by January 25, with a grand inauguration planned for January 27.
Speaking to the media at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi expressed confidence that the upgrades would be finished by the end of the month.
He revealed that the revamped stadium will be inaugurated in a ceremony attended by several distinguished guests.
“The grey structure of the stadium is fully constructed, and finishing touches are being applied swiftly,” Naqvi stated.
The stadium, with a seating capacity exceeding 34,000, promises an enhanced experience for spectators. Additionally, new scoreboards are being installed on both sides of the ground, according to the PCB chief.
Addressing Pakistan’s ongoing cricket tour of South Africa, Naqvi acknowledged the team’s challenges, including their loss in the first Test and being forced to follow on in the second.
However, he highlighted the team’s effort, saying, “Winning and losing are part of the game, and what matters most is that the team is fighting.”
Naqvi also addressed concerns about young opener Saim Ayub’s health, assuring fans that the PCB is prioritizing his medical treatment.
Saim will travel to London on Sunday, accompanied by assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, to receive care from a renowned sports doctor. “Saim Ayub is a valuable player for Pakistan, and we are dedicated to ensuring his speedy recovery,” Naqvi said.
In addition, the International Cricket Council (ICC) recently unveiled the schedule for the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy on December 24, 2024. The tournament will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
This prestigious eight-team event will feature 15 matches held across three Pakistani venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—as well as Dubai.
The teams are divided into two groups: Group A comprises Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia. Fans can anticipate thrilling matches as these cricketing giants compete for the Champions Trophy title.
