PCB chief hopeful for timely completion of renovations, says construction work being carried out at fast pace
LAHORE: Champions Trophy 2025: Mohsin Naqvi Highlights Poor Condition of Stadiums On Monday, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed concerns about the subpar condition of the country’s cricket stadiums, noting they fall short of international standards.
During a visit to assess the upgrades at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi remarked, “There is a significant disparity between our stadiums and those at the international level. None of our stadiums meet global standards.”
His remarks come as preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 are underway. The PCB has announced plans to renovate Karachi’s National Stadium, Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, and the Lahore venue, with a total investment of Rs12.8 billion, to ensure they are ready for the prestigious tournament next year.
PCB Chairman Optimistic About Timely Renovations, Claims Work is Progressing Rapidly
LAHORE: On August 19, 2024, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed disappointment over the current state of Pakistan’s cricket stadiums, stating they fall short of international standards.
During his visit to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium to review ongoing upgrade work, Naqvi remarked, “There is a significant gap between our stadiums and international standards. None of our stadiums meet these global benchmarks.”
Naqvi’s remarks come amid preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025, which are progressing rapidly. The PCB has announced plans to renovate Karachi’s National Stadium, Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, and Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, with a combined budget of Rs12.8 billion to prepare these venues for the event next year.
Last week, Naqvi approved the designs for the stadiums during a visit to BDP Pattern’s London office, a leading architectural firm based in the UK. Additionally, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved approximately $70 million for the tournament, scheduled for February-March 2025. This budget will cover various expenses during the support period from February 12 to 18.
In a recent development, the PCB decided to move the second Test of the two-match series between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to ongoing renovations at the National Stadium. Naqvi explained that security agencies had advised holding the matches without spectators, leading to this decision.
Regarding the stadium upgrade, Naqvi assured that construction is progressing swiftly, thanks to the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) team working diligently. “We aim to make our stadiums among the best in the world. Providing essential facilities is our top priority,” Naqvi said.
He also addressed the relocation of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Test and mentioned that while there may be further changes, the board remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition. Additionally, Naqvi noted that a nearby building is being converted into a hotel for teams, though it remains to be seen if the project will be completed in time for the Champions Trophy.
Overall, Naqvi remains hopeful that the renovations will be completed on schedule and that Pakistan’s cricket venues will meet the required international standards.
