- ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starts on February 19 in Pakistan.
- Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium has been renovated in a record 117 days.
- Australia vs England match is scheduled for February 22 in Lahore.
- Pakistan Cricket Board spent over PKR 18 billion on stadium upgrades.
- Pakistan’s squad has been announced, but potential changes may happen before February 11.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium Ready for Action
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin in Pakistan on February 19. Cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the exciting match between Australia and England on February 22 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This stadium has undergone significant renovations to provide better facilities.
Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium Upgraded in Record Time
Despite multiple delays, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has completed the renovation of Gaddafi Stadium in just 117 days. The venue now boasts modern floodlights, increased seating capacity, and electronic scoreboards.
PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi expressed gratitude to the workers who worked tirelessly to meet the deadline. Around 1,000 workers played a key role in making this upgrade possible. The stadium is now fully prepared for the Champions Trophy and will also host a tri-series match against New Zealand on February 8.
PCB to Inaugurate National Stadium in Karachi
The PCB has also planned an inauguration ceremony for Karachi’s National Stadium on February 11. President Asif Ali Zardari is expected to attend the event.
Initially, the PCB allocated PKR 12.8 billion for stadium upgrades, but the cost exceeded PKR 18 billion. These renovations aim to enhance the fan experience and ensure that Pakistan delivers a world-class cricketing event.
Pakistan Squad Announced for Champions Trophy
The defending champions Pakistan have announced their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. However, there is speculation that changes may still occur before February 11.
There has been criticism regarding Faheem Ashraf’s selection, and he might be replaced. Pakistan’s squad includes:
Pakistan Squad:
- Mohammad Rizwan (c)
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir
- Faheem Ashraf
- Khushdil Shah
- Salman Ali Agha
- Usman Khan
- Abrar Ahmed
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
