National Stadium Karachi renovation enters final phase ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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The renovation and upgrade of National Stadium Karachi for the ICC Champions Trophy have entered the final phase. The completion deadline has been extended for the third time, with officials now committing to finishing the work by January 31.  

In a media briefing, Arshad Khan, General Manager of the National Stadium, and Project Manager Muhammad Bilal Chauhan assured timely completion of the work. The ICC Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19, requires the stadium's readiness for hosting three matches.  

Key Updates on the Renovation 

Initial Deadlines and Extensions:  

The first phase of the upgrade was initially scheduled for completion by December 15, later extended to December 31, and subsequently January 25. Officials now guarantee completion by January 31.  

Stadium Infrastructure:  

- A five-story building is near completion, with modern facilities such as ICC Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping units, physio rooms, and match officials’ rooms on the ground floor.  
- Dressing Rooms: Construction is in the final stage on the second floor.  
- Hospitality Boxes: 24 boxes across the third and fourth floors, accommodating 1,000 people, are nearing completion. - Chairman’s Box and Admin Block: These will be completed on the fifth floor.  

Enhanced Facilities:  

- VIP Pavilion: Surrounding the new building, these pavilions will provide exclusive seating.  
- Player Entry: A state-of-the-art pathway for players from the central building to the field is being constructed. 
- Spectator Seating: Comfortable chairs, including those relocated from Gaddafi Stadium, are being installed.  

Technological Upgrades:  

- Digital Screens: Two new digital scoreboards are being installed, with the main screen measuring 80x30 feet.  
- LED Lights: Modern LED floodlights, similar to those in Australian and South African stadiums, are being set up on six poles.  

Safety Measures:  

A 10-foot spiked iron fence is being installed around the ground to enhance security, though plans for a surrounding trench have been postponed.  

Additional Features:  

- Practice sessions will benefit from floodlights on two new poles in the Oval Ground.  
- A pedestrian bridge is being constructed for fans entering the stadium.  
- Parking for 2,700 vehicles is ready, subject to ICC approval.  

Impact on Domestic Matches: 

Due to ongoing renovations, the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final, originally scheduled for January 2, was shifted to UBL Ground. Similarly, the first Test against the West Indies (January 17-21) was moved to Multan.  

The renovations, costing PKR 3.5 billion, aim to bring the stadium up to international standards. Officials remain optimistic about completing the project on time and ensuring a successful ICC Champions Trophy.