New Delhi: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) moved next month’s ODI tri-series, between South Africa, New Zealand and Pakistan, from Multan to Karachi and Lahore. The two venues are being renovated for the Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB also dismissed talks about a delay in renovation work at both venues.
The PCB said that the preparations for the Champions Trophy are in full swing with the renovation work at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Bank Stadium in Karachi set to be completed around the deadlines. Rawalpindi is the third venue in Pakistan that will host group-stage matches of the Champions Trophy while India will play its group-stage matches against Bangladesh, hosts Pakistan and New Zealand in a hybrid model in Dubai.
“Given the advanced stage of preparations at the Gaddafi Stadium and the National Bank Stadium, the PCB has decided to relocate the upcoming tri-nation ODI series to these two venues. The series, featuring New Zealand and South Africa alongside Pakistan, was originally scheduled to be held in Multan” the PCB said in a statement.
“This decision reflects the PCB’s confidence in the readiness of these upgraded venues and their ability to deliver a world-class experience for players, officials, and fans alike” the PCB added.
Stadium upgrades
The spectator capacity has been increased to 35,000 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore with new chairs installed throughout the stadium. Additionally, 480 state-of-the-art LED lights have been installed to improve broadcast LUX levels, ensuring superior viewing quality for cricket fans worldwide. Two massive digital replay screens will be installed at the venues next week to ensure superior viewing quality for fans.
Meanwhile, at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, a new players’ and officials’ hospitality enclosure has been built at the University End. To improve broadcast coverage, 350 LED lights have been installed at the venue. Two digital replay screens have already been installed and 5,000 new chairs have been also installed to enhance spectator comfort.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) dismissed rumours of under-prepared stadiums, asserting that renovation work at all three venues will be completed on time. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
