PCB Allocates 12.8 Billion PKR for Stadium Renovations Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy

PCB Allocates 12.8 Billion PKR for Stadium Renovations Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has embarked on a massive renovation project for three major stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi in preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy next year. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the allocation of a substantial budget of 12.8 billion PKR for these upgrades.

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore:

The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will receive the lion’s share of the funding, with 7.7 billion PKR allocated for its renovation. The project includes the construction of a new steel-structured pavilion (1,100 million PKR), a concrete office building (3,471 million PKR), and a steel structure for the enclosure (1,250 million PKR). Additionally, a moat will be built (189 million PKR), and two LED digital screens will be replaced (330 million PKR).

The stadium’s floodlights will be upgraded with 480 LED lights (523 million PKR), while new seats will be installed (375 million PKR). External development works will also be carried out (93 million PKR).

National Stadium, Karachi:

The National Stadium in Karachi will receive 3.5 billion PKR for its renovation, including new construction. The project involves the construction of a new steel structure for the pavilion building (1,500 million PKR), renovation of the main building and hospitality boxes (580 million PKR), and installation of two new LED digital screens (330 million PKR).

The stadium’s floodlights will be replaced with 450 LED lights (490 million PKR), and new seats will be installed (340 million PKR).

Pindi Stadium, Rawalpindi:

The Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi will undergo renovations costing an estimated 1.5 billion PKR. The project includes the replacement of floodlights with 350 LED lights (393 million PKR) and the renovation of the main building, hospitality boxes, and restrooms (400 million PKR).

Additionally, two LED digital screens will be replaced (330 million PKR), and new seats will be installed (272 million PKR).

PCB Chairman Naqvi assured that all three venues will be ready in time to host the ICC Champions Trophy next year. The renovations are expected to significantly enhance the facilities and infrastructure of these stadiums, providing a world-class experience for players and spectators alike.

PCB Secures Billion-Rupee Deal for Gaddafi Stadium Naming Rights

PCB Secures Billion-Rupee Deal for Gaddafi Stadium Naming Rights

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has secured a lucrative deal worth PKR 1 billion with a private bank for the naming rights of the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The five-year agreement will see the stadium, previously named after Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, bear the bank’s name.

This move follows a similar deal for the National Stadium in Karachi, which is now known as the National Bank Cricket Arena. The PCB has yet to officially announce the Gaddafi Stadium deal, but insiders have confirmed its completion.

“The deal is for one billion rupees, while the board had sold naming rights for the Karachi stadium for 450 million dollars,” said an insider.

The initiative to sell naming rights for cricket stadiums in Pakistan began in 2021 under former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja. The deal for the Karachi stadium was completed during his tenure.

Now headed by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB aims to use the revenue from such deals to manage renovation costs for three main stadiums in the country ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Additionally, Naqvi seeks to increase revenue streams to support domestic cricket, which is expected to benefit Pakistan cricket overall.

“Naqvi also wants to increase revenue streams to support domestic cricket, which will benefit Pakistan cricket,” the source added.

The Gaddafi Stadium, built in 1959, is one of the most iconic cricket venues in Pakistan. It has hosted numerous international matches, including the 1996 Cricket World Cup final. The stadium has a capacity of over 27,000 spectators and is known for its lively atmosphere.

The naming rights deal is a significant development for the PCB as it seeks to generate additional revenue to support its operations and invest in the development of cricket in Pakistan.

PCB Refutes Claims of Champions Trophy Stadium Delays

PCB Refutes Claims of Champions Trophy Stadium Delays

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed media reports claiming that the three stadiums scheduled to host the Champions Trophy next year will not be completed on time. The PCB has clarified that only domestic and bilateral Test matches may be affected by ongoing renovations.

The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the National Stadium in Karachi, and the Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium are undergoing upgrades for the tournament, which will be held from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited the Gaddafi Stadium on Monday and acknowledged that significant work remains to be done, as none of the stadiums currently meet international standards. However, he emphasized that the renovations will be completed in time for the Champions Trophy.

“It is disappointing that certain media outlets have misrepresented PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi’s comments,” the PCB said in a statement. “The PCB Chair clearly stated that the redevelopment and redesign of the three designated stadiums would be completed on schedule, ensuring readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.”

The PCB has also appointed UK-based architecture firm BDP Pattern to upgrade the stadium infrastructure for cricket.

Pakistan won the last Champions Trophy tournament, held in England in 2017, before it was discontinued due to a crowded schedule. The ICC has revived the tournament to ensure a major event is held every year.

The PCB’s commitment to hosting a successful Champions Trophy is evident in its efforts to ensure that the stadiums meet international standards. While some domestic matches may be relocated to facilitate construction work, the PCB has assured that the Champions Trophy remains a top priority.

Pakistan's Cricket Stadiums Undergo Major Upgrades for 2025 Champions Trophy

Pakistan’s Cricket Stadiums Undergo Major Upgrades for 2025 Champions Trophy

Pakistan’s Cricket Stadiums Undergo Urgent Upgrades for 2025 ICC Champions Trophy

With the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy fast approaching, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recognized the urgent need to upgrade the country’s cricket stadiums to meet international standards. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized the significant gap between Pakistani venues and global norms, highlighting the inadequacies that must be addressed to successfully host the prestigious event.

Naqvi acknowledged that none of Pakistan’s current stadiums meet international requirements, lacking adequate seating, bathrooms, and viewing facilities. He stressed the importance of modernizing these venues to keep pace with advancements in global sports infrastructure.

The PCB has embarked on an ambitious renovation project, focusing on three key stadiums: Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi’s National Stadium, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. The upgrades, estimated to cost Rs 12.8 billion, aim to bring these facilities up to par with international standards in time for the Champions Trophy, scheduled for February-March 2025.

During a visit to Gaddafi Stadium to review the progress, Naqvi expressed confidence that the renovations would be completed on time. He praised the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) for their round-the-clock efforts, stating, “We will make our stadiums one of the best in the world. Providing basic facilities in stadiums is our first priority.”

In addition to stadium upgrades, the PCB is also exploring the development of a nearby building into a hotel for teams. Naqvi acknowledged the complexities of this project but remained hopeful that it could be completed before the tournament.

The PCB’s efforts to upgrade Pakistan’s cricket stadiums are crucial for the successful hosting of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. By bringing these venues up to international standards, Pakistan will not only showcase its commitment to the sport but also provide a world-class experience for players and fans alike.

New Zealand Choose to Bowl First in Decisive T20I Against Pakistan

New Zealand Choose to Bowl First in Decisive T20I Against Pakistan

New Zealand Opt to Bowl First in Series-Deciding T20I Against Pakistan

In a crucial encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium, New Zealand have chosen to field first after winning the toss against Pakistan. The visitors, aiming to secure a 3-1 series victory, have made three changes to their lineup, two of which are enforced.

Tim Robinson, Dean Foxcroft, and Jacob Duffy have been replaced by Zakary Foulkes, Tim Seifert, and Cole McConchie. Robinson suffered a groin injury, while Foxcroft was ruled out due to a back complaint.

Pakistan, seeking to level the series, have recalled Shaheen Afridi to their side, with Zaman Khan making way. This is the final T20I Pakistan will play at home before embarking on tours to Ireland and England ahead of the T20 World Cup in June.

Pakistan Team:

1. Babar Azam (capt)
2. Saim Ayub
3. Fakhar Zaman
4. Usman Khan (wk)
5. Iftikhar Ahmed
6. Shadab Khan
7. Imad Wasim
8. Shaheen Afridi
9. Usama Mir
10. Abbas Afridi
11. Mohammad Amir

New Zealand Team:

1. Tom Blundell
2. Tim Seifert (wk)
3. Mark Chapman
4. Cole McConchie
5. Michael Bracewell (capt)
6. Josh Clarkson
7. James Neesham
8. Zakary Foulkes
9. Ish Sodhi
10. Ben Sears
11. Will O’Rourke

With the series on the line, both teams will be eager to put in a strong performance. New Zealand will look to their experienced bowlers, including Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears, to restrict Pakistan’s batting lineup. Pakistan, on the other hand, will rely on their explosive batsmen, led by Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, to post a competitive total.

The match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams determined to end the series on a high note.

Pakistan and New Zealand Set for Crucial Fourth T20I in Lahore

Pakistan and New Zealand Set for Crucial Fourth T20I in Lahore

Pakistan and New Zealand will face off in the fourth T20I of their five-match series on Thursday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The series is currently tied at 1-1 after the first game was washed out and New Zealand won the second game by seven wickets.

Pakistan will be looking to regain the momentum in the series after their loss in Rawalpindi. They will be boosted by the return of captain Babar Azam, who missed the second game due to a thumb injury. Azam is one of the best batsmen in the world and his presence will be a major boost for Pakistan.

New Zealand, on the other hand, will be looking to build on their victory in the second game. They will be confident of their chances, especially after Mark Chapman’s brilliant 87 in the previous match. Chapman is a dangerous batsman and he will be one to watch out for in the fourth T20I.

Both teams are using this series as preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies, which starts on June 2. Pakistan and New Zealand are both contenders for the title and they will be looking to use this series to fine-tune their preparations.

The fourth T20I is expected to be a close and exciting contest. Pakistan will be looking to regain the momentum in the series, while New Zealand will be looking to build on their victory in the second game.

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