ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made the decision to move the upcoming tri-series to renovated venues in Lahore and Karachi as preparations intensify for the Champions Trophy.
The tri-nation ODI series, which will see Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand face off, is scheduled to kick off on February 8. Initially, the PCB had intended to host this series in Multan.
In a statement, the PCB explained, “Considering the advanced preparations at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi, we have opted to relocate the tri-series to these two venues.”
Significant financial investments have been made for renovations and upgrades at stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi in anticipation of the Champions Trophy, marking the PCB’s first major ICC tournament in nearly three decades.
Gaddafi Stadium will see its capacity boosted to 35,000, and the installation of two large digital replay screens is expected to be completed by next week. Additionally, new player areas and hospitality suites have been constructed, which the PCB forecasts will be ready by January 25.
Meanwhile, the National Bank Stadium in Karachi has also been enhanced, featuring new hospitality enclosures for players and officials, along with 5,000 additional seats.
The renovations at Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi include the installation of 10,000 new seats. The PCB reported that a workforce of more than 250 personnel are diligently working around the clock to meet the ambitious January 25 deadline for the ongoing renovation efforts.
“The PCB is confident that these enhancements will significantly improve the fan experience and reinforce Pakistan’s standing as a premier destination for cricket,” the organization stated.
The Champions Trophy is set to commence in Karachi on February 19, with India slated to play all of its matches in Dubai.
Pakistan will be the host for ten group matches and has a chance to host the final in Lahore, should India fail to qualify. India is grouped with Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh in Group A, while Group B includes England, Australia, South Africa, and Afghanistan.
