Artists' line-up for Gaddafi Stadium opening ceremony revealed

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a high-profile inauguration ceremony for the newly revamped Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, set to take place on Friday at 7 PM with free entry for fans.

In a statement, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed that the event will feature performances by renowned Pakistani singers Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, and Arif Lohar, followed by a fireworks display.

 

The celebration marks the completion of extensive renovation work ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The stadium’s transformation is part of a broader effort to prepare Pakistan’s cricket venues for the eight-nation tournament, which begins on 19 February.

Alongside Lahore, Karachi’s National Stadium will also undergo a relaunch on 11 February.

Gaddafi Stadium will host four Champions Trophy matches, including a marquee clash between England and Australia on 22 February and a semi-final on 5 March.

The final is scheduled to be held in Lahore, unless India qualifies, in which case it will be moved to Dubai.

Pakistan will co-host the tournament with the UAE, where India’s group-stage matches and one semi-final will be played due to political sensitivities.

The opening match will see hosts Pakistan face New Zealand in Karachi, while the much-anticipated Pakistan-India showdown is set for 23 February in Dubai.

As part of the inauguration festivities, the PCB chief will also host a dinner to honour the workers who contributed to the stadium’s extensive refurbishment.

With Lahore preparing to welcome international cricket’s biggest stars, the revamped Gaddafi Stadium is set to take centre stage in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.