Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially reopened the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. This historic moment was celebrated with fireworks, music, and grand festivities. The stadium’s reconstruction was completed just in time for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
- PM Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium.
- Pakistan will host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, its first ICC event since 1996.
- The stadium was renovated with Rs 12.80 billion.
- Labourers worked tirelessly to complete the stadium on time.
- A tri-nation series will be held before the Champions Trophy.
A New Era for Gaddafi Stadium
The reconstruction of Gaddafi Stadium began on October 10, 2024. It was part of a major renovation project for three cricket venues in Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) allocated Rs 12.80 billion for the improvement of:
- Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- National Stadium, Karachi
- Pindi Stadium, Rawalpindi
The Gaddafi Stadium is also the headquarters of PCB. It is now ready to host five matches, including a semi-final if India does not qualify for the final.
Grand Inauguration Ceremony
The grand opening event was attended by PM Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The event featured fireworks, music, and celebrations.
PM Shehbaz expressed confidence in Pakistan’s cricket team. He said, “We all are waiting for the moment when you will defeat India.” He also motivated star players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi.
Pakistan’s First ICC Event Since 1996
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a special event for Pakistan. It will be the first ICC tournament held in the country since the 1996 Cricket World Cup. This event is an opportunity to show the world that Pakistan is ready to host major cricket tournaments.
Tri-Nation Series Begins
Before the Champions Trophy, a tri-nation series will take place at Gaddafi Stadium. The series includes:
- Pakistan vs New Zealand – February 8, 2025
- New Zealand vs South Africa – February 10, 2025
Hard Work Behind the Renovation
The reconstruction was a massive effort. Labourers worked 12 to 14 hours daily to complete the stadium on time. Many did not go home for two months. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi praised their dedication and said, “They are the real heroes behind this achievement.”
Champions Trophy Matches at Gaddafi Stadium
The Gaddafi Stadium will host several key matches in the Champions Trophy 2025. These include:
- Group stage matches
- Semi-final (if India does not qualify for the final)
The reopening of Gaddafi Stadium is a major milestone for Pakistan cricket. It marks the beginning of an exciting year with Champions Trophy 2025. With renovated stadiums, enthusiastic fans, and a strong team, Pakistan is ready to make history.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
