The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the National Stadium will be ready to host matches of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 despite concerns raised on the venue’s readiness for the marquee event starting on February 19.
Pakistan’s media carried a story which stated that “it seems absolutely impossible to contemplate the renovation work being completed within the deadline, but the personnel handed the responsibility are beaming with confidence.”
“The board would either be hero or zero for taking up such a mammoth task,” the newspaper commented.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi inspected the Rawalpindi stadium on Tuesday and confirmed that the Champions Trophy would be held as planned, it seems unlikely that the Board would get control of the renovated venues in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi by the January 31 deadline.
The other upcoming major international matches at these venues include the four-match tri-series with New Zealand and South Africa from February 08 to 14 with the first two games in Lahore and then two matches, including the final in Karachi.
“Look, the stadiums will be in a shape to host matches but the question is the PCB has promised everyone a world-class experience at these renovated venues for the Tri-series and Champions Trophy and whether they can deliver on that promise remains to be seen,” said a source.
Bilal Chohan, the man responsible for the renovation work, is reportedly complaining about not getting equipment and clearances on time to complete the work in Karachi.
The PCB has spen around PKR 12 billion on renovation, constructions and installation of equipment of equipment at all three venues in Lahore and Karachi.
With tickets have already gone on sale but until the PCB announces they have possession of the new look stadiums, concerns will remain.
On Tuesday, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned with a board member of the world body which indicates a picture of Pakistan’s preparednesss was among the reasons for his departure.
