ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Jeopardy: Pakistan’s Stadiums in Shambles, Tournament Faces Possible Relocation

With incomplete renovations and tight deadlines, ICC may consider relocating matches if PCB fails to meet standards.

January 8, 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to kick off on February 19 in Karachi, is under scrutiny due to the disappointing condition of the selected stadiums in Pakistan. Matches are scheduled across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, but ongoing construction and unfinished infrastructure have raised serious concerns about their readiness.

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The tournament, structured in a hybrid format, will see India playing all their matches, including knockouts, in Dubai. However, Pakistan, as the primary host, is racing against time to ensure the stadiums meet the ICC’s strict quality requirements.

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A source revealed, “All three stadiums are far from ready. It’s not minor refurbishments but large-scale construction, including seating arrangements, floodlights, and even playing surfaces, that remain incomplete. At Gaddafi Stadium, plaster work isn’t finished, and dressing rooms still need extensive upgrades.”

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Typically, host nations are expected to hand over fully prepared venues well in advance to allow the ICC to conduct inspections and make any necessary arrangements.

The report suggests that failure to meet deadlines could result in matches being relocated entirely. “Tournament games cannot happen in semi-finished venues. The next week will be critical in determining if PCB can meet the ICC’s requirements.”

In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the relocation of an upcoming ODI tri-series, initially set for Multan, to Lahore and Karachi. The board stated that these venues are at an advanced stage of renovation and assured fans that all upgrades will be completed on time.

With less than 40 days remaining, both the PCB and ICC face significant pressure to ensure the successful hosting of one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments.

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