Image: The rumors about the Champions Trophy being moved out of Pakistan have been denied / © Jansatta
The PCB is racing against time to finish the stadium renovations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. If the construction work is delayed, the entire tournament could be moved out of Pakistan. This has raised concerns, as completing the renovations on time is crucial for the event to take place in the country.
The upgrades at the National Stadium in Karachi, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium are still incomplete. The PCB has given a deadline of February 12 to finish the work. If they fail to meet the deadline, there could be serious consequences for not completing the renovations on time.
A PCB official confirmed that the construction work at the three stadiums will be finished by the first week of February. He added that there is no need to pay attention to rumors, assuring that Pakistan will indeed host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 as planned. He said:
All the work (related to stadiums) will be done by the first week of February. Pakistan will successfully host the Champions Trophy. No need to go by any rumors. We are committed to giving our best. There are people who are trying to tarnish Pakistan’s image on social media. We know who all they are and why they are doing this.
Renovations began in August, with a target completion date of December 31st. However, the work is far from finished, causing concern for the ICC. Following criticism of venue infrastructure during the ICC T20 World 2024, there is growing speculation that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 could be moved out of Pakistan.