PCB reveals dazzling lineup for Gaddafi Stadium's post-renovation inauguration today

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday revealed a dazzling lineup of stars set to feature in the post-renovation inauguration ceremony of Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on Friday (today) ahead of the much-awaited Champions Trophy 2025.

Taking to X, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi shared a poster disclosing that famous singers Ali Zafar, Aima Baig and Arif Lohar would perform in the inauguration ceremony set to kick off at 7pm which will also feature a fireworks display.

The board has decided against charging people who will in fact be able to attend the ceremony free of cost.

The board has decided against charging people who will in fact be able to attend the ceremony — set to kick off at 7pm also featuring a fireworks display — free of cost.

Furthermore, the PCB chief will also host a dinner in honour of workers involved in the venue's comprehensive upgrade work spanning over multiple months tomorrow.

The development comes as Naqvi, during a presser last month, had announced the inauguration of Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi's National Stadium on February 7 and 11, respectively.

The venues have undergone major renovations as they will host Champions Trophy matches along with the stadium in Rawalpindi.

Gaddafi Stadium will then host its first Champions Trophy match on February 22 featuring a thrilling clash between traditional cricket rivals England and Australia.

The eight-team tournament, comprising 15 matches, will commence on February 19 and will culminate on March 9.

The teams are divided into two groups. Group A features Pakistan, India, New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B consists of Afghanistan, South Africa, England and Australia.

Hosts Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the curtain raiser on February 19 in Karachi, while the blockbuster clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.

Pakistan will host a total of 10 matches, while four matches, including all three of India's group-stage matches and the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.

The final of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to be played in Lahore but if India qualifies then it will be held in Dubai.

Champions Trophy matches at Gaddafi Stadium

February 22 — Australia v England, Lahore

February 26 — Afghanistan v England, Lahore

February 28 — Afghanistan v Australia, Lahore

March 5 — Semi-final 2, Lahore

March 9, Final — Lahore (unless India qualify, when it will be played in Dubai)