PCB Chairman Naqvi Announces Inauguration Date for Gaddafi Stadium, Invites ICC Chairman Jay Shah

Lahore [Pakistan], January 31 (ANI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has announced the inauguration date for the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium, marking a significant milestone ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The stadium will be officially opened on February 7 by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with a grand ceremony planned for February 16 to welcome ICC officials, including Chairman Jay Shah, and heads of various cricketing boards.

Speaking to the media at the Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi expressed pride in the progress of the renovation work, which began in September 2023. "The Gaddafi Stadium will be inaugurated on February 7 by the Prime Minister. It's in its final stages, and the last touches are being applied. We promised it would be ready by the end of January, and you can all see how close it is to completion," Naqvi stated, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

In addition to the Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi confirmed that the ongoing renovations at Karachi Stadium are on track. The Karachi Stadium is set to be inaugurated on February 11 by Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, just ahead of the tri-series between Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand.

Naqvi also revealed plans for a special ceremony on February 16 in Lahore, where he has invited ICC Chairman Jay Shah and other cricket board officials. "We've invited the heads of all cricket boards of teams participating in the Champions Trophy, as well as ICC officials, including Chairman Jay Shah. We are eager to welcome them and ensure a seamless tournament," he added.

Despite facing criticism over delays and shifting deadlines, Naqvi assured that the PCB is working tirelessly to complete the renovations and provide world-class facilities for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. "The whole of the PCB is working day and night to ensure a seamless tournament. We will welcome all arriving teams with top-notch security and arrangements," he emphasized.