Gaddafi Stadium to be ready for Champions Trophy 2025 by Jan 25

CT 2025 will kick off from next month

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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the ongoing upgradation of the historic Gaddafi Stadium will be completed by January 25, with a grand inauguration set for January 27.

During a media interaction at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi expressed optimism regarding the completion of the stadium’s enhancements, which are expected to be finalized by the end of this month.

He also shared that the official inauguration of the revamped stadium is scheduled for January 27 and will be attended by several prominent figures.

"The grey structure of the Gaddafi Stadium is now fully complete, with finishing work progressing rapidly." he said, adding the stadium, which has a seating capacity of over 34,000 spectators, is set to offer a completely revamped experience for visitors.

Work is also underway to install new scoreboards on both sides of the ground, PCB chief further said.

 

 

 

 

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Regarding the performance of Pakistan’s national cricket team on their ongoing tour of South Africa, Naqvi acknowledged the team's struggles after their defeat in the first Test match and the follow-on in the second.

However, he emphasised that both victories and defeats are a part of the game, stating, "The team is fighting, and this is what matters the most."

Naqvi also addressed growing concerns about the treatment of young opener Saim Ayub, assuring that the PCB will not compromise on his medical care.

Saim, a promising prospect for the national team, is set to travel to London on Sunday for treatment under the care of a renowned sports doctor, accompanied by assistant coach Azhar Mahmood. "Saim Ayub is an asset to Pakistan, and we are committed to his swift recovery," Naqvi affirmed.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) officially unveiled the much-anticipated schedule for the 2025 Men's Champions Trophy on December 24, 2024. The prestigious tournament will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Dubai, with the matches scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

The eight-team event will feature 15 exciting matches, spread across three venues in Pakistan — Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi — as well as Dubai.

The teams are divided into two groups: Group A includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B features Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia. Fans can expect intense competition as these cricketing powerhouses vie for the coveted Champions Trophy title.