Gaddafi Stadium to undergo major renovation to match Dubai's standards

Gaddafi Stadium Lahore is set to undergo extensive renovations to elevate it to the standards of Dubai's cricket stadium. This ambitious project aims to enhance the viewing experience for spectators and upgrade the facilities ahead of Pakistan's hosting of the Champions Trophy early next year.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has laid out plans to upgrade the three major venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. A foreign company has already presented the design proposals for these renovations. In a recent meeting in Lahore, detailed discussions were held about the future of Gaddafi Stadium. It was decided to remodel the stadium to provide spectators with an unobstructed view of the matches, similar to the viewing experience at Dubai Cricket Stadium.

One of the major changes includes moving the hospitality boxes closer to the ground, as the current ones are located too far back. Additionally, there is a consensus to increase the seating capacity in the Imran Khan and Fazal Mahmood enclosures to accommodate more fans. Plans also include the installation of a large screen, subject to availability, to enhance the match-day experience.

Another significant change involves the main building of the stadium, where the rooms currently used by board directors will be demolished. These will be relocated to either the National Cricket Academy (NCA) or the Cricket House. This move is aimed at optimizing space and ensuring better facilities for spectators.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized the importance of improving spectator facilities and ensuring an unobstructed view of the matches. Naqvi is currently in England to watch the fourth T20 International on Thursday, with a possible trip to the USA to watch World Cup matches on the cards. Upon his return, discussions regarding the upgrades of the Karachi and Rawalpindi stadiums will resume.