PCB Moves Tri-Nation Series to Upgraded Lahore and Karachi Stadiums

On Wednesday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced that the forthcoming tri-nation ODI series, originally scheduled to take place in Multan, will now be held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. This series, which includes teams from Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, has been moved to these two prestigious venues, both of which are currently undergoing substantial renovations in anticipation of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB also reported that preparations for the Champions Trophy are progressing well. Both Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium are nearing the final stages of extensive upgrades to align with international standards. Both venues are set to host significant matches during the tournament in 2025.

The historic Gaddafi Stadium is receiving a comprehensive renovation to provide all visitors with a modern and improved experience. The seating capacity has been notably increased to 35,000, with newly installed seating arrangements designed to enhance spectator comfort.To enhance the quality of broadcasts, 480 advanced LED lights have been installed to increase broadcast LUX levels, thereby providing an exceptional viewing experience for audiences globally. Furthermore, two large digital replay screens, measuring 80 feet by 30 feet and 22 feet by 35 feet, are scheduled to be installed next week to ensure fans enjoy the best possible in-match viewing. A new hospitality enclosure for players and officials is also expected to be completed by January 25. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) intends to officially open the upgraded stadium in the final week of January, heralding an exciting new era for the venue. Significant improvements have been made at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium to guarantee an outstanding experience for both players and spectators. A new hospitality enclosure for players and officials has been established at the University End, along with 350 additional LED lights to improve the stadium’s broadcast capabilities.

This enhancement will ensure optimal visibility for international audiences viewing the matches. Additionally, 5,000 new seating arrangements have been introduced, significantly enhancing spectator comfort throughout the facility.

Although the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is not undergoing as extensive renovations as the other two venues, it is receiving some minor improvements. The primary focus has been installing 10,000 new seats, upgrading hospitality boxes, and adding two new digital replay screens. Alongside these venue improvements, PCB curators have diligently worked to maintain the playing surfaces across all three venues. Under the guidance of Tony Hemming, the PCB’s ground staff has been dedicated to ensuring that the outfields and playing surfaces are kept in excellent condition.

Since the commencement of the upgrade efforts, no competitive cricket has taken place in Lahore and Karachi, while Rawalpindi hosted a match late last year. This approach is designed to safeguard the quality of the playing fields in anticipation of significant international events.

The PCB is committed to upholding the highest standards for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and other forthcoming international competitions. Over 250 workers are engaged in the upgrade projects, working tirelessly to meet the January 25 deadline.