Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has voiced his frustration over the slow progress of the upgradation and renovation work at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The work is part of a broader effort to prepare key cricket venues for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted in Pakistan.
Gaddafi Stadium slow progress
During a visit to Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday night, Mohsin Naqvi found that contractors were not working at night despite his earlier directive to operate round the clock.
This lack of activity has raised concerns about meeting the project’s deadlines. “The huge project can only be completed on time by working 24/7,” Naqvi emphasised as per The Nation, urging stakeholders to mobilise more resources and adhere strictly to the upgradation timeline.
Mohsin Naqvi issues directive
While inspecting the stadium, Naqvi directed immediate repairs to the main water pipeline under the main building and called for the quick drainage of accumulated water. He also reviewed various parts of the main building, which is currently being dismantled, and reiterated the need for accelerated progress to ensure completion well before the Champions Trophy.
Upgradation efforts for Champions Trophy 2025
The Gaddafi Stadium is not the only venue undergoing renovations. The PCB has also initiated upgradation work at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi and the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
These efforts are crucial for ensuring that Pakistan is well-prepared to host the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy event in 2025.
PCB commitment
In addition to addressing the stadium’s renovations, Naqvi touched on the performance of the Pakistan cricket team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024.
Despite the team’s lacklustre performance in the first two games, he affirmed that these players would continue to represent Pakistan throughout the tournament. “Whatever their performance, they are to play the rest of the tournament. For that, they require all the support,” Naqvi stated.
Internal matters under discussion
Naqvi also assured that internal team matters are being discussed within the PCB but indicated that it was not suitable to disclose details publicly at this time. “We are discussing matters regarding the team and for now, to talk about it is not suitable,” he added.
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Moving forward to CT 2025
With the clock ticking towards the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB is under pressure to ensure that all renovation and upgradation projects are completed on schedule. Naqvi’s recent visit underscores the urgency and importance of these efforts, as Pakistan aims to provide world-class facilities for the upcoming international event.
