With just 36 days remaining for Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium to host the high-profile Australia vs England match of the ICC Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is all set to miss the deadline. PCB was supposed to hand over the stadium to the ICC (International Cricket Council) by January 25. However, the stadium work is still pending. Instead of Jan 25, PCB is now expected to hand over the stadium on Jan 30 after completion of the renovation.
As Pakistan gears up to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, significant renovation work is still underway at key stadiums including Gaddafi Stadium. But with the tournament set to begin on Feb 19, PCB is now racing against time to ensure that all venues meet international standards. As can be seen in the videos, significant work is still pending.
Timeline for Gaddafi Stadium upgrades
As per a report in RevSportz, the PCB, a detailed timeline for the completion of various upgrades at the stadiums is now out.
Screen Work at Lahore Stadium
The installation of new screens will be completed by January 19, 2025. This upgrade is crucial for enhancing the spectator experience during matches.
Floodlight Installation
The floodlight system, essential for evening matches, is expected to be completed by January 22, 2025. This upgrade is a must for the day-night matches. The existing floodlights do not meet the high quality of modern-day sports broadcasting.
Full Structure Completion
The complete renovation of the stadium is slated for completion by January 28, 2025. It includes, the addition of a second floor and other structural enhancements. This timeline is critical as it will finalize preparations just weeks before the tournament begins.
Dressing Rooms and VIP Boxes
These facilities are set to be completed by January 27, 2025. Considering it’s an ICC event, many important guests will grace the matches. It will ensure that players and officials have access to modern amenities during the tournament.
Entry and Exit Points
The final touches on entry and exit points, along with painting work, will be handed over on January 30, 2025. This is vital for ensuring smooth crowd management during matches.
The successful completion of these upgrades is not only vital for hosting the Champions Trophy but also for future events in Pakistan. This tournament marks a significant milestone as it will be Pakistan’s first major international event since co-hosting the Cricket World Cup in 1996 with India and Sri Lanka.
Failure to complete the renovations on time could jeopardise Pakistan’s ability to host matches, potentially leading to relocation discussions similar to those seen during other recent international events. The PCB has emphasised its commitment to ensuring that all venues are ready and equipped to deliver a world-class experience for players and fans alike.
