Champions Trophy: Lahore’s Renovated Gaddafi Stadium Opened

The ICC Champions Trophy marks Pakistan’s first major international cricket event in nearly three decades, with matches to be held in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.

February 8, 2025: Pakistan has unveiled the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, a key venue for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This marks Pakistan’s return to hosting major international cricket tournaments after nearly 30 years. The tournament, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, will feature eight teams and matches across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. India’s matches will take place in the UAE, following their decision not to play in Pakistan.

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The Gaddafi Stadium, which underwent a 117-day renovation, now boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including new LED floodlights, larger scoreboards, upgraded hospitality boxes, and improved seating arrangements. The renovation aims to set the stage for a world-class cricketing experience.

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A tri-nation series involving Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa is set to kick off at the stadium this Saturday, serving as a prelude to the Champions Trophy. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed confidence during the opening ceremony, stating, “We are going to show the world that we are good hosts.”

Challenges in Hosting

Pakistan last hosted a major cricket tournament in 1996, co-organizing the World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. However, the 2009 militant attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore led to a decade-long absence of international cricket in the country.

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Renovation work at other venues continues. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, set to host the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand, faced multiple delays but is reportedly nearing completion. Rawalpindi Stadium is also finalizing preparations, with workers installing scoreboards and painting seats in Pakistan’s national colors.

A National Milestone

Cricket plays a central role in Pakistan’s national identity, and the successful hosting of the Champions Trophy is seen as a victory for the entire nation. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chair Mohsin Naqvi hailed the event as a monumental achievement, stating, “This is a victory for the entire nation.”

The Champions Trophy is poised to restore Pakistan’s standing as a premier cricket host while showcasing the country’s resilience and hospitality on the global stage.

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