PCB 'hopeful' stadium upgrades in Karachi, Rawalpindi, Lahore will meet Champions Trophy deadline

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed confidence that Pakistan will be ready to host all teams for the 2025 Champions Trophy, despite the significant challenges in upgrading the country's cricket stadiums.

During a media briefing at Gaddafi Stadium on Monday, the chairman assured that efforts are underway to complete the necessary upgrades to the Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi stadiums before the tournament.

He remained optimistic that major teams, including India, will participate as planned.

"Let the stadiums be built, and teams from all over, including India, will come," Naqvi stated.

"Construction work is happening round the clock".

Naqvi admitted that upgrading all three stadiums, including those in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, is a challenge, but he is "hopeful" that the work will be finished in time.

The chairman acknowledged the disparity between Pakistan's stadiums and international standards, stressing the need for improvement.

"There is a world of difference between our stadiums and those around the world. None of our stadiums meet international standards; we need to raise the quality of our venues," he noted.

In light of ongoing construction at the National Stadium in Karachi, the second Test of the upcoming series against Bangladesh has been relocated to Rawalpindi, where the first Test will also be held.

He also addressed concerns about coordination and logistics, revealing that security agencies have recommended holding matches without spectators for safety reasons.

"There is no lack of coordination. The security agencies have advised us to hold matches without spectators, and we have also moved the Test matches after consultation".

Additionally, Naqvi mentioned plans to convert a building near Gaddafi Stadium into a hotel to accommodate teams during the Champions Trophy.

"We have acquired a building near the Gaddafi Stadium for a hotel, but it's a complex process".

Naqvi indicated that within a week or ten days, a decision will be made on whether the project can be completed before the Champions Trophy.