PCB announces huge budget for stadium renovations ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has earmarked Rs. 12.80 billion for the enhancement of three key stadiums in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for February/March next year.

The decision was made during the 72nd Board of Governors (BoG) meeting, chaired by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, at the National Cricket Academy. All BoG members were in attendance.

The allocated funds will be used to elevate Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi's National Bank Cricket Arena, and Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium to international standards ahead of the marquee event.

In addition to stadium upgrades, Rs. 4.50 billion has been designated for the promotion of domestic cricket. The BoG also approved an increase in the contracts for domestic players. Notably, the budget for women's cricket has been significantly increased from Rs. 70 million to Rs. 240 million, with new additions to their central contracts also approved.

Chairman Naqvi emphasized that the upgrades will enhance facilities for cricket enthusiasts and ensure the stadiums meet international standards. He also briefed members on the preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy, confirming that the upgrades will be completed before the event.

The proposed dates for the Champions Trophy are from February 19th to March 9th. Last month, the PCB submitted the schedule to the ICC for final approval, indicating that the tournament will be hosted in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.

Lahore will host seven matches, including the final, while Karachi's National Stadium will host the opening match and a semi-final, totaling three matches. Rawalpindi will host five matches, including a semi-final.

This event marks the return of the ICC Champions Trophy after an eight-year hiatus, the last being held in 2017 when Pakistan triumphed over India in the final.