Former India Cricketer Slams Poor Ground Conditions in Lahore After Rain Halts Australia vs Afghanistan Clash
Noida (Uttar Pradesh), March 2: Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal has strongly criticized the poor drainage system at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, calling it a “bad advertisement for Pakistan” after the ICC Champions Trophy match between Afghanistan and Australia was abandoned due to waterlogging.
The Group B encounter on Friday was halted after 12.5 overs when rain interrupted play. However, even after the rain stopped, large water puddles remained on the field, and despite the ground staff’s best efforts, play could not resume. The match was eventually called off, with both teams receiving one point each.
“Renovating a stadium is fine, but the drainage system and super sopper should be the number one priority. It isn’t good for Pakistan,” Madan Lal said.
Gaddafi Stadium’s Drainage System Under Fire
Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium was under the spotlight for its lackluster drainage system, which failed to clear water efficiently despite efforts from ground staff using mop sticks and makeshift drying methods. The scenes from the abandoned match triggered criticism from players, fans, and analysts worldwide.
Madan Lal, a 1983 World Cup-winning player, expressed his disappointment, highlighting that such incidents damage Pakistan’s image as an international cricket host.
“I saw yesterday’s match and their method of getting the water out. There was a lot of criticism. This is not how a world-class stadium should operate.”
With Pakistan hosting a major ICC event, concerns have been raised about whether their stadiums and facilities are up to global standards.
India’s Venue Controversy: An Unfair Advantage?
Madan Lal also addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding India’s fixed venue in Dubai for the Champions Trophy. Former England cricketers Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton recently voiced concerns about India having an unfair advantage by playing all their matches at a single venue, while other teams travel between Pakistan and the UAE.
Acknowledging that there is some truth to the claim, Madan Lal noted:
“Yes, there is an advantage, but India cleared it quite early. Other teams will complain, but that’s how it is.”
Despite this, India has dominated the tournament, securing comprehensive victories over Bangladesh and Pakistan to book a semi-final berth.
India vs New Zealand: A Perfect Semi-Final Rehearsal
India’s final Group A match against New Zealand on Sunday will determine the group standings and potential semi-final matchups. However, Madan Lal believes that regardless of the opponent, India is well-prepared for the knockout stage.
“It doesn’t matter who we face. Tomorrow’s match will be a good rehearsal before the semi-finals,” he added.
India, led by Rohit Sharma, has been in dominant form, and their clash with New Zealand will serve as a crucial test before the high-stakes knockout rounds.
Conclusion: Infrastructure Issues and Tournament Talking Points
The abandoned Australia vs Afghanistan match has once again raised questions about Pakistan’s preparedness to host major ICC events, with drainage issues exposing the inadequate infrastructure at Gaddafi Stadium.
Meanwhile, debates over India’s fixed venue advantage continue, but with their flawless performances so far, the team remains focused on lifting the Champions Trophy.
As the tournament heads into the knockout phase, all eyes will be on India vs New Zealand—a potential preview of an epic semi-final battle ahead.
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Gaddafi Stadium Lahore, India vs New Zealand, Afghanistan vs Australia, Pakistan Cricket, Madan Lal, Cricket Controversy, Drainage Issues, Cricket News, Champions Trophy Semi-Final
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