The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Wednesday announced that the upcoming tri-national ODI series, initially scheduled to take place in Multan, will now be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
The series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa, has been moved to these two premier venues, which are undergoing significant upgrades in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The PCB also confirmed steady progress in preparations for the Champions Trophy, with Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium close to completing major renovations to meet international standards.
Both venues are on track to host key tournament matches in 2025.
The historic Gaddafi Stadium is undergoing a major overhaul to provide a modern and improved experience for all participants.
Spectator capacity has been significantly increased to 35,000, with new seats installed ensuring greater comfort.
To improve broadcast quality, 480 state-of-the-art LED lights were installed to elevate broadcast LUX levels, providing superior viewing to audiences around the world.
Additionally, two massive digital replay screens, measuring 80 feet x 30 feet and 22 feet x 35 feet, will be added next week to provide fans with the best in-game viewing experience.
A new reception area for players and officials is also expected to be completed by January 25.
The PCB plans to inaugurate the renovated stadium in the last week of January, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the venue.
At the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, significant improvements have been implemented to ensure an excellent experience for players and fans.
A new hospitality enclosure for players and officials has been created at the university, while 350 new LED lights have been installed to improve media coverage of the stadium.
This addition will provide optimal visibility to the international audience watching the matches. Additionally, 5,000 new seating options were installed, improving spectator comfort throughout the venue.
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while not undergoing as extensive renovations as the other two venues, is undergoing minor touch-ups.
The main focus was on installing 10,000 new chairs, upgrading hospitality boxes and installing two new digital replay screens.
In addition to the venue improvements, PCB conservators have worked tirelessly to maintain the playing surfaces at all three venues.
Under the supervision of Tony Hemming, the PCB ground staff ensures that the outfields and playing surfaces remain in pristine condition.
No competitive cricket has been played in Lahore and Karachi since modernization efforts began, while Rawalpindi last hosted a match late last year. This strategy is put in place to preserve the quality of the playing field before major international events.
The PCB remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the highest standards for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and other upcoming international events.
More than 250 workers are currently involved in the modernization projects, working around the clock to meet the January 25 deadline.
