Lahore, Karachi To Host ODIs Before Champions Trophy As PCB Reveals Tri-Series Schedule

Pakistan announced schedule for tri-nation ODI series [Source: @TheRealPCB/X.com]

In a recent development, the Pakistan Cricket Board have announced the schedule for the upcoming tri-series fixtures. The series involves New Zealand and South Africa in the mix with Pakistan hosting the matches on their home soil. 

Ahead of this development, the tri-series was scheduled to be hosted by the Multan Cricket Stadium entirely where Pakistan is now hosting West Indies for a two-Test series. However, PCB decided to relocate the matches to Lahore and Karachi.

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Pakistan Announces Tri-Series Fixture In Revamped Venues

The tri-series will start on February 8 where all three teams will face each other once before playing the final match at the National Stadium in Karachi. The iconic Gaddafi stadium which is still not fully underway, will be ready to host these matches. 

As per the schedule, the tri-series will commence on February 8th with a day-night clash between Pakistan and New Zealand. Following this, New Zealand will face South Africa in a day match on February 10th. 

The league stage will conclude with a match between Pakistan and South Africa on February 12th. The top two teams from the league stage will then compete in the final on February 14th. Both the encounters of 12th and 14th February will be day-night encounters.

Pakistan Confident With Gaddafi's Prep For Champions Trophy

Though recent visuals of the preparation of Gaddafi Stadium have been nothing short of a horror show, as per PCB's statement, Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium have undergone significant upgrades in preparation for upcoming matches. Hosting these matches will highlight the opportunity to showcase the preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

"It will also be a perfect occasion for the PCB to showcase its redesigned and redeveloped venues to the world through its world-class broadcast," PCB said in a statement.

As per PCB's report, both venues will have increased seating capacity with the installation of new chairs and improved broadcast quality with the addition of LED lights and large replay screens. PCB has also ensured enhanced fan experience with the construction of modern hospitality enclosures for players and officials at both stadiums. 

With the Champions Trophy starting on February 19, Gaddafi hosting the tri-series will be an apt display of how the management has overcome the initial poor preparation worries.

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