The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will be handing over the Gadaffi Stadium to the ICC on February 11 ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 which has given some relief from the rising tension over the hosts’ readiness.
The Pakistan Board has posted a video of the stadium on ‘X’ and wrote “Under the lights, it’s a sight to behold!…We can’t wait to welcome fans, officials and teams for the tri-nation series and Champions Trophy.”
Unveiling the stunning new-look Gaddafi Stadium! Under the lights, it’s a sight to behold! 🏟️✨
ONE WORD to describe your excitement after seeing this breathtaking view? 👇
We can’t wait to welcome fans, officials and teams for the tri-nation series & #ChampionsTrophy 🏆@ICC… pic.twitter.com/fsr3WoYI03
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 30, 2025
A Board source told PTI that the stadium will be handed over to the International Cricket Council after the pakistan’s tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa.
The ICC has set January 31 as the deadline for the handover of all three stadiums – Gadaffi Stadium, National Stadium and the Rawalpindi Stadium.
The sources added that ‘final touches’ were being given to the Gaddafi Stadium. “…this has been a construction site and there will be some rubble, which will be removed shortly. This stadium has taken shape after six months of work,” said the source.
It is stated that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has spent around 12 billion on renovation, construction and installation of equipment at all three venues.
With tickets have already gone on sale but until the PCB announces they have possession of the new-look stadiums, concerns will remain. Pakistan has opened online portal to book tickets for the tournament as the fans are eager for Stadium experience the ICC event games.
Meanwhile ICC CEO Geoff Allardice has resigned after ICC expressed dissatisfaction with his failure to give a clear picture of Pakistan’s preparedness for the event.
The eight team Champions Trophy is set to played across Pakistan and UAE. With India refused to travel to Pakistan, All of their matches will be played at Dubai.
On this occasion, “it seems absolutely impossible to contemplate the renovation work being completed within the deadline, but the personnel handed the responsibility are beaming with confidence.” said a PCB media story.
The ICC event is set to begin with Pakistan and New Zealand playing in the inaugural match on February 19 at National Stadium Karachi.
Also read: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Jersey – All Teams New Look
