The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the venues for this year’s Champions Trophy are fully prepared as the tournament approaches. In a recent media tour of the stadiums in Lahore and Karachi, the PCB showcased the upgrades and renovations made to key venues for the upcoming eight-team, 50-over event, marking the first global cricket tournament in Pakistan in 28 years.
Despite tensions between India and Pakistan, India will play all of its matches in Dubai. However, the tournament’s successful hosting in Pakistan is seen as a significant step towards restoring the country’s status as a venue for international cricket, following its recovery from the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team.
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PCB spokesperson Sami Ul Hasan assured that Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, one of the tournament’s key venues, is on track for completion by the end of the month. The stadium’s capacity has been increased to 35,000, making it Pakistan’s largest cricket venue. New hospitality areas have been added to accommodate more spectators. The stadium will host the Champions Trophy match between Australia and England on February 22.
As part of the final tests, Lahore and Karachi will host a tri-nation series with New Zealand and South Africa next month. With all upgrades on track, the PCB is confident that the stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi will meet international standards, positioning Pakistan to once again host major global cricket events.
