Tag: Gaddafi Stadium

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday rated the pitches at Gaddafi Stadium and Lord’s as ‘unsatisfactory’.

The opening match of the ICC Test Championship 2025-27 between England and New Zealand ended inside four days despite rain disrupting play on day three. During the fixture, 16 wickets fell on day one and 17 on day two.

The cricket governing body rated the surface as ‘unsatisfactory’ and handed the venue one demerit point under the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process.

Match referee Andy Pycroft highlighted the imbalance between bat and ball on Lord’s surface.

“There was plenty of excessive seam movement throughout the Test and the ball also kept extremely low on several occasions. The bounce was variable throughout as 16 wickets fell on the first day and 17 on the second. There was simply an over-balance in favor of ball against bat caused by the pitch,” he said.

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“The pitch was slow and low and made scoring runs very difficult. It did not suit a One Day International game as batters had to spend more time to settle in. It helped spin very early in the match and continued the same way throughout,” he added.

Meanwhile, match referee Graeme La Brooy explained the reason for the unsatisfactory rating of the Gaddafi Stadium surface.

Pakistan outplayed Australia after skittling them for 157 in 42 overs in the third ODI held at Gaddafi Stadium on 4 June. In reply, the hosts chased down the target on a challenging surface in 41 overs, losing six wickets in the process

“The pitch was slow and low and made scoring runs very difficult. It did not suit a One Day International game as batters had to spend more time to settle in. It helped spin very early in the match and continued the same way throughout,” La Brooy said.

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LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to enhance security around the dressing room area at Gaddafi Stadium after a fan managed to breach the players’ zone in an attempt to meet his idol, Babar Azam.

According to sources, the board has approved the installation of an iron fence between the spectator enclosures and the dressing room area to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“The new fencing will ensure fans cannot directly access the players’ zone again,” a PCB source confirmed.

The incident occurred during the first Test between Pakistan and South Africa when a teenage fan climbed over the barrier from the Majid Khan Enclosure and made his way toward the dressing room.

He managed to slip past the stands and approach the players’ area before being spotted by members of the support staff, who immediately alerted security personnel.

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The intruder was detained and handed over to the police. Officials said the teenager confessed to entering the restricted area solely to take a selfie with Babar Azam.

A case was later registered against him for trespassing and interfering in official matters.

The incident briefly shifted attention away from Pakistan’s 93-run victory over South Africa, which gave the hosts a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.

Despite enduring a lean run with the bat in recent months, Babar Azam remains Pakistan’s most followed and admired cricketer.

His overall career numbers, more than 14,000 international runs across formats, continue to reflect his stature as one of the modern greats, inspiring unwavering loyalty among fans.

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LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi inspected the arrangements for the grand opening ceremony and directed officials to ensure a spectacular event befitting the newly revamped Gaddafi Stadium here on Friday.

He returned to the country early in the morning and, without taking a break, headed straight to Gaddafi Stadium to oversee the preparation for the opening ceremony.

“This event should reflect the grandeur of the new Gaddafi Stadium,” Naqvi emphasized.

He credited the entire team for completing the stadium’s reconstruction in record time, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan.

“The newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium stands as one of the most beautiful and world-class cricket venues, completed in record time,” he stated. “I am thankful to Allah for fulfilling the promise made to the nation.”

Mohsin Naqvi assured that both cricket fans and players would enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities provided in the stadium.

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He also extended his heartfelt appreciation to the workers, FWO, NESPAK, contractors, and PCB officials for their dedication and efforts in bringing this vision to life.

The cricket board revealed on Thursday that the opening ceremony will take place on 7 February ahead of the first match at the newly renovated venue.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to welcome cricket fans with a spectacular opening ceremony on 7 February, ahead of the Pakistan versus New Zealand match on 8 February,” the PCB stated in a press release.

“Fans can look forward to a series of colourful events, including live singing, stunning fireworks and a unique light show.

“Renowned singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar and Aima Baig will grace the stage with electrifying performances, followed by a dazzling drum and firework display.

“The opening ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, will be free for the public from 5.30 pm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.”

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LAHORE: Ali Zafar, alongside Aima Baig and Arif Lohar, is set to perform at the grand opening ceremony of the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium here, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Thursday.

The cricket board revealed that the opening ceremony will take place on 7 February ahead of the first match at the newly renovated venue.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to welcome cricket fans with a spectacular opening ceremony on 7 February, ahead of the Pakistan versus New Zealand match on 8 February,” the PCB stated in a press release.

“Fans can look forward to a series of colourful events, including live singing, stunning fireworks and a unique light show.

“Renowned singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar and Aima Baig will grace the stage with electrifying performances, followed by a dazzling drum and firework display.

“The opening ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, will be free for the public from 5.30 pm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.”

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PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who meticulously supervised the transformation of the Gaddafi Stadium, expressed his deep satisfaction with the project’s prompt completion.

“Our venues are now on par with international standards and we are proud to offer cricket fans the best possible experience,” said Naqvi.

“The transformation of this stadium in such a short time is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.

“First of all, I thank the workers who made the impossible task possible. The combined efforts of Frontier Works Organisation (FWO), NESPAK, the contractors and PCB teams have turned this dream into reality.

“Despite criticism, our team remained committed and Allah Ta’ala made our path easy.”

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LAHORE: PCB Director of Infrastructure Jawad Qazi has assured that the renovation work at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium is in its final stages and will be completed before the upcoming tri-nation series, involving South Africa and New Zealand.

While speaking to the media here on Wednesday, he provided key updates on the progress, highlighting the rapid pace of work without compromising quality.

“All chairs in the stadium will be installed by tonight,” Qazi confirmed. “The finishing work for the pavilion and office buildings is done, and now we are moving on to placing the furniture.”

He further added that the debris outside the Gaddafi Stadium is being cleared, and cleaning work is also underway.

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“PHA (Parks & Horticulture Authority) has started planting flowers, grass, and trees to enhance the stadium’s aesthetics,” Jawad Qazi shared.

He also expressed confidence that the stadium will be completed in time for the tri-nation series while revealing that eight new gates have been installed for better accessibility.

“Inside the stadium, all work has been completed. VIP pathways will be finalized within a day or two, while the rest are already prepared,” he added.

“We are ensuring that the work is done efficiently while maintaining high standards.”

PCB Director of Infrastructure also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the government departments and expressed his gratitude for their assistance in the project.

READ: PCB Chairman reviews Rawalpindi Stadium upgradation ahead of Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday released an exciting video showcasing the ongoing renovations of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

The video highlights the massive overhaul undertaken under the leadership of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who played a hands-on role in ensuring the stadium’s refurbishment was completed within five months.

From the installation of brand-new seats to the addition of state-of-the-art facilities, the footage offers a glimpse of the stadium’s modernized look.

One of the most striking features shown in the video is the upgraded floodlight towers, now equipped with new bulbs that promise to illuminate the ground like never before.

Additionally, the installation of two digital screens, one of which has been completed, is set to enhance the fan experience during matches.

The video also reveals the finishing touches being applied to the stands, which are expected to provide a more comfortable and vibrant atmosphere for spectators.

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The professional redesign aims to make Gaddafi Stadium comparable to the world’s best cricket venues, ensuring an unmatched experience for fans, players, media personnel, and officials.

Gaddafi Stadium will first host a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa before the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19.

The clash between England and Australia on February 22 will be the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 at the Gaddafi Stadium.

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LAHORE: Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket (PCB), visited the Gaddafi Stadium here on Thursday to inspect the ongoing construction work ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

During his visit, he reviewed the progress and directed contractors to accelerate the upgradation work of Gaddafi Stadium to ensure its timely completion.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the importance of meeting deadlines, especially with the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon.

It’s worth noting that the ICC on Thursday confirmed the hybrid model for the Champions Trophy 2025, with India playing their matches at a neutral venue.

Earlier today, a report from ESPNcricinfo revealed that the hybrid model has received approval for the entire ICC event cycle spanning from 2024 to 2027.

The ICC has now officially confirmed the development through a press release.

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“ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 to be played across Pakistan and a neutral venue,” the apex cricket body announced.

“India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC Events during the 2024-2027 rights cycle will be played at a neutral venue, the ICC Board confirmed on Thursday, 19 December.”

“This will apply to the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 (hosted by Pakistan), set to be played in February and March 2025, as well as the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 (hosted by India) and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (hosted by India and Sri Lanka).”

The ICC also confirmed that Pakistan will host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028, the first event of the next event cycle. Similar to the current cycle, India will not travel to Pakistan for the 2028 event.

READ: ‘Hybrid model’ approved for Champions Trophy 2025: reports

Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing upgradation work at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The Gaddafi Stadium upgradation project has reached approximately 50% completion, with significant progress observed in the construction of enclosures and the main building floors, which are now in their final stages.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February to March, however, India’s participation in the tournament is uncertain as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) seeks the government’s approval to visit the country.

But Mohsin Naqvi remained optimistic that all eight teams will visit Pakistan to participate in the ICC event.

Naqvi recently conducted a detailed visit to Gaddafi Stadium to oversee the project’s development. He also inspected the construction of a cricket museum and souvenir shop within the main building.

During his visit, Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi observed accelerated progress in enclosure renovations and main building flooring, with the work on floors nearing completion.

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He held a meeting at the FWO camp office, where project drawings were presented to assess the key design elements.

Chairman Naqvi emphasized the need to keep the parking area spacious and instructed that the external appearance of the main building be made visually appealing.

Additionally, he directed FWO and other relevant authorities to complete the construction within the stipulated timeframe.

The PCB chairman said the importance of completing the renovations by the Champions Trophy, adding that Gaddafi Stadium is being transformed to meet international standards with improved facilities for players and spectators.

“Our goal is to have Gaddafi Stadium ready ahead of the Champions Trophy, meeting international standards,” stated Mohsin Naqvi. “We’re enhancing facilities for players and cricket fans alike.”

PCB officials including the director of infrastructure, director of domestic, senior general manager of infrastructure, and officials from FWO and NESPAK were also present in the meeting.

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LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) bought a multi-storied building adjacent to the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore for PKR 4 billion on Thursday.

The multi-storied building will be renovated and transformed into a seven-star hotel to accommodate international as well as local players.

This development will resolve the challenge of accommodating visiting teams and foreign players during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), who currently have to stay in local five-star hotels.

Additionally, this will shorten travelling time and eliminate traffic issues during teams’ commute from hotels to the stadium.

PCB is also working on upgrading three major stadiums, including the Gaddafi Stadium before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan.

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Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi, while addressing the media during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9 final last month, acknowledged the need to upgrade three major stadiums, followed by the upgradation of other venues.

“Our three main venues – Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi – will be upgraded before the Champions Trophy. We will upgrade other venues later as well, once these three are done. Our stadiums will be state-of-the-art once they have been renovated,” said Chairman PCB.

Later in the same month, the chairman was presented with the plan to upgrade three major stadiums by NESPAK (National Engineering Services of Pakistan) officials.

“The chairman instructed the officials about his plans regarding the enhancement of the view for the fans from every seat in the stadium while he also emphasised the importance of renovation of the hospitality boxes at all three venues,” the PCB said in a press release.

“With the upgradation plan to be finalised soon, the Chairman instructed the NESPAK officials to start the work on stadiums immediately keeping in mind a tight window of time before hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.”

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation on Tuesday paid a visit to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and reviewed the arrangements for the Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to be held in February 2025.

ICC Event Operations team, including Senior Manager Sarah Edgar, and Manager Aoun Zaidi inspected various facilities at the stadium including the field, dugouts, and media accommodations.

In addition, they evaluated the VIP boxes, digital screens, and the practical path from the hotel to the stadium.

The ICC delegation will then travel to Islamabad for the final phase of the inspection where they will be joined by Chris Tetley, ICC Head of Events.

Tetley is poised to meet the newly-appointed PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad.

Following the completion of the inspection, the delegation will then compile a report and share it with the ICC and member nations.

Earlier on Monday, the ICC delegation visited Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The team inspected various facilities of the National Bank Stadium while the management of the stadium briefed the delegation regarding the arrangements for the upcoming tournament.

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Last year in December, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) signed the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hosting rights agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) in Dubai.

According to a statement, the former PCB Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf was joined by ICC General Counsel Jonathan Hall in the signing of the hosting rights to Pakistan at the ICC headquarters.

The PCB in its capacity has already intimated the government to provide foolproof security to visiting international teams for the Champions Trophy.

For the unversed, ICC, in November 2021, announced a series of international cricket competitions for both men and men in the 2024–2031 cycle, which also features the 2025 and 2029 Champions Trophy editions.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be an eight-tournament and the structure will follow previous editions with two groups of four, semi-finals and final.

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