Image: Babar Azam received an ovation at the inauguration of Karachi National Stadium / © ESPNcricinfo
The Tri-Series opening ceremony at the newly renovated National Bank Stadium in Karachi saw an overwhelming reception for Pakistan captain Babar Azam. The stadium, inaugurated on February 12, 2025, by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, hosted a star-studded event attended by Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab.
As part of the celebrations, fans were given free entry, enjoying performances by top Pakistani singers. The highlight of the event came when Babar Azam took the stage, greeted by loud chants from the crowd. In his speech, he expressed gratitude for the support but also urged Karachi fans to attend matches in greater numbers.
Pakistan will begin their Champions Trophy defense against New Zealand at the stadium, which is one of three venues renovated at a cost of Rs 17 billion. The upgrades include a new pavilion, 350 LED floodlights, two digital replay screens, and 5,000 new seats, enhancing the spectator experience. Built-in just four months, the modernized National Bank Stadium is set to host its first ICC event since 1996, marking a historic moment for cricket in Pakistan.