Champions Trophy preparations: Karachi stadium renovation enters final phase

After the successful revamp of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, significant upgrades are now underway at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi. The renovation project has entered its final phase, with work progressing swiftly on the new building.  

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, recently visited the stadium to inspect the four floors of the under-construction building. During his visit, he reviewed the progress of the project, observed the finishing touches, and instructed the construction of enclosures in the new structure.  

Mohsin Naqvi announced that new LED lights are being installed on the stadium poles, while fans can look forward to enjoying a unique laser light show for the first time in Pakistan's cricket history. Additionally, both scoreboards will now be positioned at greater heights to provide an unobstructed view for spectators.  

Explaining the move, Mohsin Naqvi stated, "Raising the scoreboards will ensure a better viewing experience for cricket enthusiasts, avoiding any inconvenience during matches."  

The PCB chairman emphasized that local and international spectators will benefit from enhanced facilities during matches this time. He also directed the acceleration of work to complete the upgrades before the ICC Champions Trophy. "Preparations for the Champions Trophy tournament are in full swing, and we must ensure the timely completion of the project with utmost dedication," Naqvi added.  

For spectator convenience, he instructed that parking areas be relocated closer to the stadium and proposed reviewing plans to build a trench between the ground and seating areas to enhance safety. He stressed maintaining high standards while ensuring timely progress.  

During the visit, officials from the Frontier Works Organization (FWO), responsible for the upgrades, briefed Mohsin Naqvi on the project's progress. Naqvi urged the FWO to complete the work on time and emphasized meeting all quality benchmarks.  

Director of Infrastructure for PCB, the National Bank Cricket Stadium Manager, and senior FWO officials were also present during the visit.