The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized a comprehensive plan to upgrade the national stadium in Karachi, with renovation work expected to begin next month, sources said on Tuesday.
They said the renovation would include remodeling of the enclosures similar to those of the recently renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Steps will also be taken to improve the viewing experience for spectators.
The National Bank Stadium in Karachi, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi were upgraded ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2024, hosted in Pakistan.
As part of the first phase of the renovation programme, the National Stadium in Karachi has undergone a major overhaul with the construction of a brand new state-of-the-art pavilion, the installation of large digital screens, modern LED projectors and thousands of new seats for spectators.
The newly constructed pavilion has been fitted with international standard changing rooms for players and match officials, as well as upgraded hospitality suites and media facilities designed to meet ICC requirements.
Meanwhile, sources said the PCB is not planning to immediately install roofs over the stands of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Besides, the board is also collaborating with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) on the construction of a new cricket stadium in Islamabad.
The management and operational control of the new Islamabad Stadium will remain with the CDA, while the PCB will oversee cricket activities and event management at the facility, the sources added.
