National Stadium Karachi Renovation Nears Completion For ICC Champions Trophy

The National Stadium Karachi is undergoing a significant transformation in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As the project enters its final phase, officials are working tirelessly to ensure the stadium is ready for the upcoming international event.

The renovation timeline has been adjusted multiple times, but the focus remains on meeting the new January deadline.

Extended Deadlines and Project Milestones

Initially, the completion of the renovation was slated for December 15, later extended to December 31 and then January 25. The most recent update sets the deadline at January 31. Despite these delays, officials are committed to completing the work in time for the event starting on February 19.

Modernizing Stadium Infrastructure

The stadium’s renovation includes constructing a five-story building equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The ground floor will house essential units like the ICC Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping offices, along with rooms for physiotherapists and match officials.

Second Floor: The dressing rooms, critical for player comfort and preparation, are in their final stages of construction.
Third and Fourth Floors: The hospitality boxes, designed to accommodate up to 1,000 guests, are almost complete, providing an enhanced viewing experience.
Fifth Floor: The prestigious Chairman’s Box and Admin Block will be ready soon, adding a touch of luxury and efficiency.

Enhanced Facilities for Players and Spectators

The VIP Pavilion is a highlight, offering exclusive seating around the new building. A dedicated player entry pathway is being constructed to ensure smooth movement from the central building to the field.

Seating Improvements: New, comfortable chairs, some relocated from Gaddafi Stadium, are being installed to improve spectator comfort.

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Cutting-Edge Technological Upgrades

Two digital scoreboards are being introduced, with the main screen measuring an impressive 80×30 feet. These will provide clear, real-time updates during matches.

LED Floodlights: Six poles fitted with modern LED lights, comparable to those in top Australian and South African stadiums, will enhance visibility during night games.

Security and Additional Features

To bolster security, a 10-foot spiked iron fence is being installed around the ground. Although a surrounding trench was planned, this aspect has been postponed.

Practice Facilities: Floodlights on two new poles will illuminate the Oval Ground for evening practice sessions.
Fan Experience: A pedestrian bridge is being built to streamline fan entry, and a parking area accommodating 2,700 vehicles is ready, pending ICC approval.

Impact on Domestic Matches

The renovation work has shifted key domestic matches to alternate venues. The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final, scheduled for January 2, took place at UBL Ground, while the first Test against the West Indies (January 17-21) was moved to Multan.

Investment and Future Prospects

The ambitious project, costing PKR 3.5 billion, aims to elevate the stadium to international standards. Officials are optimistic about completing the renovations on time, ensuring the ICC Champions Trophy is hosted successfully.