PCB chief inspects Rawalpindi stadium renovation ahead of Champions Trophy

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Wednesday to review the ongoing renovation efforts in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Expressing satisfaction with the progress, Naqvi noted that preparations are reaching their final stages. He inspected key areas such as the main pavilion, media boxes, and VIP enclosures, ensuring everything was on schedule for the major tournament.

“The renovation project is nearing completion, and I am happy with the advancements,” Naqvi stated during his visit. 

“The main pavilion and media box have been fully revamped, and the installation of chairs in the enclosures will be finalized within the next few days,” he added. 

The PCB Chairman also reviewed proposed security arrangements for the participating teams and emphasized Pakistan’s preparedness to host an ICC event after a significant hiatus.

“This is a proud moment for Pakistan. We are fully committed to making this tournament a remarkable success,” he remarked. 

“We aim to create a memorable event, and I hope cricket fans witness some thrilling matches,” he further added. 

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence on February 19, with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The tournament, featuring eight teams, will include 15 matches over a span of 19 days, taking place in both Pakistan and Dubai.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is scheduled to host three matches. Bangladesh will compete against New Zealand on February 24, followed by an encounter between Australia and South Africa on February 25. The venue’s final match will see Pakistan facing Bangladesh on February 27.