As the excitement builds for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set the wheels in motion for a comprehensive upgrade of three major cricket stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. With the prestigious tournament scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9 next year, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has given the green light for a significant renovation project aimed at enhancing the facilities and ensuring the venues meet international standards.
The PCB’s decision to upgrade these venues was solidified during Chairman Naqvi’s recent visit to the London headquarters of BDP Pattern, a renowned architectural firm based in the United Kingdom. During the visit, Naqvi met with BDP Pattern Chairman Chris Harding and other senior officials to discuss the renovation plans. The UK-based firm, which boasts an impressive portfolio of designing around 200 stadiums worldwide, was chosen to spearhead the upgradation project due to its expertise and reputation for delivering top-tier sports facilities.
To bring these ambitious plans to fruition, the PCB has allocated Rs12.80 billion for the renovation of Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi’s National Stadium, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium. These venues, which are set to host the Champions Trophy matches, will undergo extensive upgrades to accommodate the influx of cricket fans and ensure that the facilities meet the rigorous demands of a global sporting event.
In addition to the PCB’s financial commitment, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has also approved a budget of approximately $70 million for the tournament. This budget will cover various expenses during the support period, scheduled from February 12 to 18, including warm-up matches, media activities, and promotional events.
During the visit to BDP Pattern, Chairman Naqvi received a detailed briefing on the stadiums’ upgradation project. Expressing satisfaction with the designs and the progress of the project, Naqvi emphasized the importance of delivering world-class facilities for the Champions Trophy. "This is the first time we are undertaking such extensive upgrades to cater to a large number of cricket fans. I am personally supervising this mega project to ensure its timely completion before the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi stated.
The renovations are not just focused on aesthetic improvements but also aim to enhance the overall experience for players, officials, and spectators alike. The upgrades will include modernized seating arrangements, improved lighting systems, upgraded player facilities, and enhanced media centers, among other enhancements.
The ICC has outlined a support period window from February 12 to 18, during which warm-up matches, media engagements, and promotional activities will take place. The warm-up matches, crucial for teams to acclimatize and fine-tune their preparations, will be held across the three host cities—Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. Each participating team will have the opportunity to play a maximum of two warm-up matches, with the schedule and logistics being finalized in consultation with the ICC.
The Champions Trophy 2025 is poised to be a landmark event for Pakistan, not only showcasing the country’s passion for cricket but also highlighting its ability to host international sporting events of the highest caliber. The PCB’s commitment to upgrading the stadiums is a testament to its dedication to providing a world-class experience for fans and players alike.
As the countdown to the Champions Trophy begins, cricket enthusiasts across Pakistan and beyond eagerly await the completion of the renovations and the commencement of the tournament. With the backing of a world-renowned architectural firm and the full support of the ICC, the stage is set for a memorable and historic cricketing event on Pakistani soil.
