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PCB Official Updates On Champions Trophy 2025 Stadium Work Amid Relocation Rumours 

Rajgeeta Yadav

PCB gives update on Stadium works [Source: @RevSportzGlobal/X]PCB gives update on Stadium works [Source: @RevSportzGlobal/X]

With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just a month away, concerns have surfaced about the readiness of Pakistan’s stadiums. Reports suggest that the renovation work at the three host venues is behind schedule, raising doubts about Pakistan’s ability to host its first major ICC event in nearly 30 years. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured fans that the tournament will proceed as planned in Pakistan.

The Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, will feature eight teams playing across three venues — Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The renovation work at these stadiums started in August last year and was expected to be finished by December 31, 2024. However, the work is still ongoing, causing concern that the stadiums may not be ready on time.

According to reports, the International Cricket Council (ICC) plans to send an inspection team to check the progress. If the stadiums are not ready by February 12, the tournament could be moved to the UAE as a backup venue.

PCB Official Clears the Air

Amid growing speculation, a PCB official has clarified that the stadium renovations will be completed by the first week of February. 

"All the work (related to stadiums) will be done by the first week of February. Pakistan will successfully host the Champions Trophy. No need to go by any rumours. We are committed to give our best. There are people who are trying to tarnish Pakistan's image on social media. We know who all they are and why they are doing this," the official said.

The PCB has already made some adjustments to manage the workload on the stadiums. They moved an upcoming ODI tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand from Multan to Karachi and Lahore. This decision was made to focus on preparing Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium, which will host six of the 12 group-stage matches during the Champions Trophy.

Pakistan last hosted a major international cricket event in the 1996 World Cup. Since then, the country has faced challenges in hosting international matches due to security concerns. Hosting the Champions Trophy is a significant opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its readiness for international cricket.

However, the delays in stadium renovations have sparked concerns among fans and officials alike. The ICC is keen to avoid a repeat of the logistical issues faced during the T20 World Cup in the USA last year, where unprepared venues caused problems.

The Champions Trophy will kick off on February 19 with Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.