Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited the National Stadium in Karachi on Saturday to review the progress of the ongoing construction work ahead of the much-awaited Champions Trophy 2025.
During a press conference, Naqvi provided updates on the improvements being made to the stadium, emphasizing the completion of critical infrastructure in preparation for the prestigious event.
“A building is under construction and in the final stages of completion. Parking for 2,700 vehicles is being developed in the area. Stadium fences are being replaced to ensure there is no obstruction in sight,” Naqvi said.
The PCB chief also announced the installation of advanced LED lights and a new display, which is expected to be operational by January 25, 2025.
“Installation of the LED lights is underway and the new screen will be installed by January 25th,” he confirmed.
He also praised the efforts behind the improvements at the National Stadium in Karachi.
“Extremely fast work has been done in a short period of time, and the modernization of the National Stadium in Karachi will be completed before the Champions Trophy tournament. Facilities are being improved for cricket fans and I congratulate the entire team on their excellent and quick work,” he said.
The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Pakistan, with knockout stage matches, including the final, played at a neutral venue if India qualifies.
On the decision on the neutral site, Naqvi said: “The decision on what constitutes a neutral site will be taken tomorrow. Karachi will receive good news regarding the Champions Trophy.”
He also addressed questions about ongoing construction and hinted at new developments in the coming months.
“The new stadium building will be ready in a month. Work will continue here in January,” he added.
Naqvi also revealed that the opening match of the Pakistan-West Indies Test series, which will take place in Karachi, could be relocated. However, he suggested the possibility of one of the tri-series matches being held at the venue.
“The West Indies Test match could be shifted from Karachi. A tri-nation series match could be held here (in Karachi) before the Champions Trophy,” he said.
On Monday, Jason Gillespie revealed the reasons behind his resignation as coach of the Pakistan cricket team.
In a recent interview with Australian media, Gillespie shared that being left in the dark about high performance coach Tim Nielsen’s situation was the tipping point for his departure. He expressed concern over the diminishing purpose of his role in setting up Pakistan cricket.
In response to questions about Jason Gillespie’s resignation, Naqvi clarified the matter.
“The head coach’s role is to coach, while the selection committee’s role is to select the players. The head coach was part of the selection committee but did not have full authority over the selections,” Naqvi explained.
Faizan Lakhani is deputy editor (sports) at Geo News.
