PCB chairman inspects Gaddafi Stadium upgradation progress

LAHORE: The Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, conducted a late-night inspection of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore to assess the ongoing upgradation work. Accompanied by officials from the Frontier Works Organization (FWO), he reviewed the progress made on the basement and other areas of the stadium as part of the preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. During his visit, Naqvi expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and highlighted the successful completion of the basement ceiling by the August 30th deadline. He also announced that the ceiling of the first floor would be completed within two weeks.

The Chairman PCB emphasized the extensive nature of the renovations, stating that the stadium would be virtually brand new, with only the rear wall remaining from the previous structure. The reprofiling work, he explained, would not only enhance the viewing experience for spectators but also increase the stadium’s capacity from 22,000 to 30,000.

Naqvi also revealed plans to replace the seats at Gaddafi Stadium, with the old seats being repurposed for the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The construction of the PCB headquarters and new pavilions is progressing rapidly, and is expected to be completed within the next 75 days.

Addressing questions about the reprofiling process, the Chairman PCB clarified that it was an integral part of the upgradation plans and expressed confidence in completing all work well before the start of the ICC Champions Trophy.

Regarding the participation of the Indian team in the ICC Champions Trophy, Naqvi reiterated the PCB’s readiness to host the event successfully and confirmed that India would be participating. He also addressed the issue of naming a new white-ball captain for the Pakistan cricket team, stating that the selection committee was taking its time to reach a unanimous decision before consulting with the Chairman PCB.