With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, the spotlight is firmly on Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is racing against time to ensure the iconic venue is match-ready before the tournament kicks off on February 19. But recent visuals of ongoing construction have set alarm bells ringing.
The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is a marquee event, featuring 15 matches across three venues in Pakistan: Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Karachi’s National Stadium, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. India will play all their matches in Dubai. However, concerns about Gaddafi Stadium’s readiness are mounting after the PCB shared a video of Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s inspection visit.
Is Gaddafi Stadium really ready for ICC Champions Trophy?
The footage shows that while progress has been made—including the installation of modern floodlights and new screen stands — much work remains unfinished. But look at the demolished roads and horrible seating management and there are huge doubts about whether the stadium would be ready in time, especially with the opening match between Australia and England scheduled for February 22.
Gaddafi Stadium not yet ready!
Reports suggest that the gray structure of the stadium is 100% complete, but the finishing touches are still ongoing. With only 44 days left before the first ball is bowled, the PCB is under immense pressure to deliver.
Despite the worrying visuals, the PCB remains confident. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed satisfaction with the progress and praised the upgraded facilities, including improved views from the general enclosures. He met with workers at the site and directed the team to complete the project within the stipulated time, despite the harsh winter conditions. The revamped Gaddafi Stadium will boast a capacity of over 34,000, with state-of-the-art floodlights and score screens on both ends of the ground. This is a 7,000 increase from the previous 27,000 capacity.
Fixtures at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
| Date | Event | Venue | Team 1 | Team 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 February, 2025 | ICC Champions Trophy, 2025 – Match 4 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Australia | England |
| 26 February, 2025 | ICC Champions Trophy, 2025 – Match 8 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Afghanistan | England |
| 28 February, 2025 | ICC Champions Trophy, 2025 – Match 10 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Afghanistan | Australia |
| 05 March, 2025 | ICC Champions Trophy, 2025 – 2nd Semi-Final | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | B1 | A2 |
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