Pakistan Faces Major Delays in Champions Trophy Stadium Renovations
With less than a month to go, concerns mount over Pakistan's readiness to host the ICC event as key venues remain incomplete.
- The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has missed multiple deadlines for completing renovations at key venues for the 2025 Champions Trophy, including the January 31 deadline set by the ICC.
- Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is now scheduled to be handed over to the ICC on February 11, just days before the tournament begins on February 19.
- Reports suggest it may be 'absolutely impossible' for renovations at stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi to meet the promised world-class standards in time for the event.
- The PCB has spent approximately PKR 12 billion on renovations but has faced delays owing to equipment shortages and logistical issues, raising concerns about the quality of the final preparations.
- ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned earlier this week, with his failure to address Pakistan's preparedness reportedly contributing to his departure.