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With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 fast approaching, concerns continue to mount over Pakistan’s readiness to host the marquee tournament. Reports indicate that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is struggling to complete the renovation and upgradation of its venues within the stipulated deadline, raising serious doubts about the country’s ability to deliver a world-class experience for the event.
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Stadium Renovations Behind Schedule
According to Pakistan’s English daily, Dawn, it appears “absolutely impossible” for the PCB to meet its renovation deadline, despite the board’s assurances. The three venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—are still undergoing construction and infrastructure improvements, with delays in obtaining necessary equipment further slowing down progress.
However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who inspected the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, remains optimistic, insisting that the board will gain control of the renovated venues by January 31.
The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams, marking its return for the first time since 2017. However, due to political tensions, India will play all its matches in Dubai under a hybrid model.
Tri-Series Precedes Champions Trophy
Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will host a tri-series featuring New Zealand and South Africa, starting on February 8. The series will serve as a test run for the newly renovated venues, with matches scheduled as follows:
📍 Lahore – First two games
📍 Karachi – Two games, including the final
However, an unnamed source following the renovation work has expressed doubts over whether Pakistan can deliver on its promise of providing a world-class experience.
“The stadiums will be in shape to host matches, but the question is whether the PCB can deliver on its promise of a top-tier experience,” PTI quoted a source as saying.
Karachi Faces Additional Challenges
Bilal Chohan, the man in charge of the Karachi National Stadium’s renovation, has voiced frustration over delayed clearances and lack of necessary equipment, making it difficult to complete the work on time.
“The panels for the new building were only released from Karachi Port on Sunday night, with installation scheduled for the next morning. These are the kind of challenges we are dealing with, but it’s disheartening to see people bashing us,” Chohan said.
With the PCB having already spent PKR 12 billion on venue renovation and equipment installation, the stakes are high. However, until an official confirmation is made regarding the stadiums’ completion, concerns will persist.
ICC CEO Resignation Linked to Pakistan’s Readiness?
Adding to the drama, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned on Tuesday, with reports suggesting that his inability to provide a clear update on Pakistan’s preparations was one of the reasons behind his departure.
While tickets for the Champions Trophy have already gone on sale, the uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s venues has put the PCB under intense scrutiny. With the tournament just around the corner, the question remains: Will Pakistan be ready in time?
