With just 42 days left until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place in Lahore on February 19, serious questions have been raised over the state of Pakistan’s main cricket ground. Though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured us that the National Stadium in Karachi, the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium do not meet the criteria set forth by the International Cricket Council (ICC), this situation begs issues regarding Pakistan’s ability to successfully plan the event.
As a result of the fact that the reforms and repairs are anticipated to be finished by the 31st of December in 2024, there will be a significant backlog, which will force the PCB to compete against time in order to have the site ready for ICC inspections until the 12th of February in 2025. Significant enhancements Included are cottages with many levels The welcome lodge, lights, top level upgrades and fence remain incomplete. Unfavorable weather conditions impeded construction work. As a result, there is an increase in the amount of essential work that has to be considered with regard to safety.
India’s involvement adds another layer of complexity. Due to the ongoing political tensions, the BCCI has decided not to send an Indian team to Pakistan, so the Indian matches may be held at a neutral venue. which may be in the United Arab Emirates This arrangement complicates the general logistics of the tournament.
An ICC team will visit Pakistan this week to assess the situation. This assessment will be important in determining whether a venue can receive the Champions Trophy. Preliminary discussions regarding the potential transfer of the event to the UAE have already begun. emphasizing the seriousness of the situation .
PCB is under great pressure to produce the promised changes. As the deadline approaches, they are putting pressure on civil construction workers to accelerate pace; nonetheless, there are serious worries about whether the job will be finished on time in accordance with ICC criteria.
These backlogs are a severe threat to Pakistan’s standing as a hosting country. This circumstance echoes recent concerns in the United States. During preparations for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, if the stadium does not fit the necessary format soon, the ICC may have to reconsider the tournament. It is regarded as a significant setback for Pakistani cricket.
Original start date in Pakistan: February 19, 2025.
India’s matches begin in the UAE on March 6, 2025.
Tournament end date: March 9, 2025.
ICC Inspection Deadline: February 12, 2025.