The International Cricket Council (ICC) has sent a team to Lahore to inspect Gaddafi Stadium as part of the preparations for the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy. The tournament will take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, and the ICC delegation’s visit is to ensure everything is ready for the big event.
The delegation, which included ICC officials, broadcasters, and logistics staff, carefully examined the stadium’s facilities. They took a close look at important areas like the media boxes, dressing rooms, and spectator enclosures. This inspection was crucial in making sure the venue can meet the standards for a world-class cricket tournament.
Usman Wahla, the Director of International Cricket at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), shared that ongoing upgrades to the stadium are expected to be finished by the end of January. Gaddafi Stadium is set to host at least four matches during the tournament, including the second semi-final match on March 5. The stadium will play a key role in the event, ensuring an exciting atmosphere for both players and fans.
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be held across three venues in Pakistan—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—along with Dubai. The tournament will feature eight top cricket teams from around the world, split into two groups. Group A consists of Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Afghanistan, South Africa, England, and Australia.
The tournament will kick off on February 19 with Pakistan playing New Zealand in Karachi. A highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India will take place on February 23 in Dubai. With such exciting matchups, the event promises to be a memorable one for cricket fans everywhere.
Before their visit to Gaddafi Stadium, the ICC delegation also inspected Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, another venue for the tournament. The six-member team assessed the readiness of the stadium, ensuring that everything is in place for the competition. Usman Wahla provided an update on the development works at the National Bank Stadium, with the final upgrades set to be completed by January 25.
The tournament will feature a total of 15 matches, with each team aiming for victory in this prestigious cricket competition. The ICC’s inspections are vital in ensuring that the stadiums meet the necessary standards and that the tournament runs smoothly. With only a few weeks left until the tournament begins, the excitement for the 2025 Champions Trophy is building, and cricket fans are eagerly looking forward to the action.
