Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi flanked by the Sindh Government officials including Governor Kamran Tessori, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab and others unveiled the upgraded National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday.
The newly-upgraded Stadium features world-class dressing rooms for players and match officials, complemented by high-quality hospitality rooms. Developed in a record time of around four months, the facility underscores the dedication and efficiency behind the stadium's rapid transformation.
In addition to the new pavilion, several major upgrades have been completed at the National Bank Stadium to enhance both the playing and viewing experience. These include the installation of 350 LED lights to improve visibility and broadcast quality, the fixing of two digital replay screens and the addition of over 5,000 new chairs to enhance spectator comfort.
The project was overseen by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who made multiple visits to the stadium to ensure the timely completion of the work.
Nearly 5,000 dedicated workers contributed tirelessly to transforming the stadium, ensuring its full operational readiness for the upcoming tri-series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
To honour the workers, the Pakistan Cricket Board hosted a grand reception at the venue.
"Salute to the greatness of the workers," PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi paid a rich tribute to over 700 workers present at the special reception.
"The incredible workforce behind this transformation deserves immense appreciation. Their hard work has made it possible for us to proudly present the National Bank Stadium as a world-class venue, ready to welcome top cricketing action."
He also met the workers individually as well invited them to the virtual semifinal between Pakistan and South Africa on Wednesday.
"It's your right to watch the match," said Naqvi adding that they have won hearts with their hard work. "I thank everyone."
"Every worker is our hero, who turned the dream into a reality," he concluded.
A brand-new pavilion, which is built at the University Road End, features dressing rooms for players and match officials. Apart from that it also has VVIP hospitality boxes, and has the capacity of 1,060 spectators.
Additionally, barriers have been removed to enhance the viewing experience for spectators. Hospitality boxes have been refurbished, and a new ring road and pedestrian bridge have been constructed, providing enhanced access and facilities for fans.
This state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in the stadium's history, reinforcing PCB's commitment to enhancing cricket infrastructure in Pakistan.
The National Bank Stadium has a proud history of producing thrilling matches, while the city of Karachi has given Pakistan some of its finest cricketers. With this enhanced, spectator-friendly venue, the hope is that more young talent will emerge and go on to represent Pakistan on the international stage.
This latest transformation aligns with PCB's broader strategy of modernising cricket venues across the country, ensuring that Pakistan remains a premier destination for international cricket.
It is worth mentioning here that, the fans were entertained by the thrilling performances by renowned singers Ali Zafar, Shafqat Amanat Ali, and Sahir Ali Bagga.
The event also showcased a spectacular fireworks display and light show, making it a night to remember. Entrance to the event was free for the public.
The construction work for the project commenced on September 28, 2024, and was successfully completed by January 31, 2025.
It was the collective effort of all the workers, contractors, NESPAK, FWO, and the entire PCB team.
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