The renovation of Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium is progressing quickly, with nearly 60% of the work now complete. Set to host the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March 2025, the stadium is being upgraded to meet international standards, promising a world-class experience for players and fans alike.
Key updates include new seating arrangements to accommodate more spectators, improvements to the flooring, and the installation of advanced lighting systems. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is overseeing the project to ensure everything is ready for the prestigious tournament.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently visited the stadium to inspect the ongoing work. He expressed satisfaction with the progress and emphasized that the renovation would be finished on time. “The project will be completed before the Champions Trophy at all costs,” said Naqvi. “The team is working diligently, and I am personally overseeing the progress.”
The upgrade is being carried out by the Frontier Works Organization (FWO), with key officials and architects also involved in monitoring the work. The PCB is committed to delivering a top-tier venue for the eight-team competition, which will take place across three cities in Pakistan: Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
As per the tentative schedule, Pakistan will be in Group A alongside India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Group B will feature England, South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan. The Champions Trophy will run from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with the final set to be played at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on March 9.
Proposed ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule:
- February 19: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Karachi
- February 20: Bangladesh vs India – Lahore
- February 21: Afghanistan vs South Africa – Karachi
- February 22: Australia vs England – Lahore
- February 23: New Zealand vs India – Lahore
- February 24: Pakistan vs Bangladesh – Rawalpindi
- February 25: Afghanistan vs England – Lahore
- February 26: Australia vs South Africa – Rawalpindi
- February 27: Bangladesh vs New Zealand – Lahore
- February 28: Afghanistan vs Australia – Rawalpindi
- March 1: Pakistan vs India – Lahore
- March 2: South Africa vs England – Rawalpindi
- March 5 Semi-final: TBC vs TBC – Karachi
- March 6 Semi-final: TBC vs TBC – Rawalpindi
- March 9 Final: TBC vs TBC – Lahore
With Gaddafi Stadium’s upgrade progressing well, cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
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