Champions Trophy 2025: Gaddafi Stadium Renovation Nears Completion

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the completion of the structural renovation of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The stadium, set to host several matches of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, will be ready by January 25, 2025. A grand inauguration is planned for January 27, 2025.

Gaddafi Stadium will be ready by January 25.
Inauguration set for January 27, 2025.
Part of three venues for Champions Trophy 2025.

Renovation Details and Stadium Features

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the stadium’s “grey structure” is now fully complete. Finishing touches are progressing quickly. The renovation includes the installation of new scoreboards on both ends of the ground, enhancing the viewing experience.

The stadium will host key matches, including semi-final 2 and the final if Pakistan qualifies. Naqvi also mentioned that the inauguration will be attended by several prominent figures, marking a significant moment for Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure.

Other Hosting Venues for Champions Trophy 2025

Alongside Gaddafi Stadium, Rawalpindi Stadium in Rawalpindi and National Stadium in Karachi are the other Pakistani venues. Matches will also be held in Dubai International Cricket Stadium due to security concerns preventing India from traveling to Pakistan.

The tournament will be played from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with matches distributed across these venues. This joint hosting with Dubai showcases Pakistan’s commitment to reviving international cricket in the region.

Complete Schedule for Champions Trophy 2025

Below is the full schedule for the Champions Trophy:

Group Stage Matches:

Feb 19: Pakistan vs. New Zealand – Karachi
Feb 20: Bangladesh vs. India – Dubai
Feb 21: Afghanistan vs. South Africa – Karachi
Feb 22: Australia vs. England – Lahore
Feb 23: Pakistan vs. India – Dubai
Feb 24: Bangladesh vs. New Zealand – Rawalpindi
Feb 25: Australia vs. South Africa – Rawalpindi
Feb 26: Afghanistan vs. England – Lahore
Feb 27: Pakistan vs. Bangladesh – Rawalpindi
Feb 28: Afghanistan vs. Australia – Lahore
Mar 1: South Africa vs. England – Karachi
Mar 2: New Zealand vs. India – Dubai

ALSO READ: Top Features of Gaddafi Stadium: Where Modern Meets Tradition

Knockout Stage:

Mar 4: Semi-final 1* – Dubai
Mar 5: Semi-final 2** – Lahore
Mar 9: Final*** – *Lahore*

Notable Matches and Implications

The Pakistan vs. India match on February 23 is highly anticipated, scheduled in Dubai due to the ongoing political tensions. This match is expected to draw significant global attention, given the historic rivalry.

Semi-finals are strategically placed to ensure either India or Pakistan will have a home-ground advantage if they qualify. The final will also be played in Lahore unless India qualifies, in which case, it will be moved to Dubai.

The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a landmark event for Pakistan cricket. With the Gaddafi Stadium’s renovation nearing completion, fans can look forward to a world-class experience. The joint hosting with Dubai demonstrates a significant step in promoting international cricket in the region, ensuring the tournament’s success and safety.

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