The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a significant announcement regarding the upcoming tri-nation ODI series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa. The four match tri-nation series will be played from February 8 – February 14.
New venues for the Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand ODI tri-series
Initially planned to be held in Multan, the series has now been relocated to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. This move comes as part of the PCB’s ongoing efforts to enhance and upgrade key cricket venues across Pakistan in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The decision to host the series in Lahore and Karachi ensures that these premier venues will showcase the best facilities available for international cricket, offering players, officials, and fans a world-class experience.
Extensive upgrades and massive transformation at the iconic stadium
According to the Geo News, Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium is undergoing a massive transformation to provide a modern and state-of-the-art cricketing experience. The stadium’s seating capacity has been increased to accommodate 35,000 spectators, with newly installed seating that offers greater comfort and accessibility. One of the major highlights of the upgrades is the installation of 480 advanced LED lights, which will enhance broadcast quality and visibility for global audiences.
The reports further stated that, two massive digital replay screens – one measuring 80 feet x 30 feet and the other 22 feet x 35 feet – will soon be operational, offering fans an immersive in-match viewing experience. A modern hospitality enclosure for players and officials is also under construction and expected to be completed by January 25. The PCB has set the stage for the grand inauguration of the newly revamped venue, marking the beginning of a new era for Gaddafi Stadium later this month.
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Enhancements to meet international standards
The National Bank Stadium in Karachi has also undergone significant upgrades to ensure that it meets international standards for hosting top-tier cricket events. A new hospitality area has been established at the University End, providing enhanced facilities for players and officials during matches.
Furthermore, 350 LED lights have been installed to improve visibility and broadcast quality, ensuring the stadium’s capability to deliver high-quality cricket coverage for global audiences. These technological advancements are complemented by the addition of 5,000 new seating options, which will significantly increase capacity and spectator comfort. With these upgrades, Karachi’s stadium is set to provide an ideal environment for competitive cricket, ensuring a seamless viewing experience for fans and optimal conditions for players.
Commitment to ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The PCB is committed to delivering world-class cricket facilities for the Champions Trophy 2025. Over 250 skilled workers are currently engaged in the renovation projects, working around the clock to meet the January 25 deadline. The upgraded Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi will serve as key venues for the tournament, offering world-class infrastructure for players and fans alike. The PCB’s proactive approach to improving cricketing facilities reflects its dedication to creating a seamless and unforgettable cricket experience for both international teams and global audiences.
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