PM Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated Gaddafi Stadium ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

On Friday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif officially inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which has undergone significant upgrades in preparation for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament will take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

During the inauguration ceremony, the Prime Minister was joined by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, and several other government officials. 

In his speech, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his pride over the renovation, stating, “I am thrilled to witness the transformation of Gaddafi Stadium. This stadium now reflects the spirit of Pakistan’s cricketing passion. I have full confidence that our team will continue to make the nation proud in the upcoming Champions Trophy.”

He also praised the workers who contributed to the renovation, urging PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to reward their efforts. 

“The workers who made this renovation possible deserve to be recognized. I request Mr. Naqvi to take them on a trip to London as a token of appreciation for their dedication,” Sharif said.

The Prime Minister also commended the Pakistan cricket team for their recent performances. 

“Our cricketers have shown exceptional skills in recent matches. I am hopeful that they will not only win the Champions Trophy but also defeat our arch-rival, India, in the upcoming match in Dubai. The entire nation stands behind them,” he added.

Sharif expressed excitement about the opportunity to host the Champions Trophy in Pakistan after 29 years. 

“It fills me with pride to see this prestigious tournament return to Pakistan after such a long time. The people of Pakistan are eagerly waiting, and we are committed to providing top-level security and hospitality for the event,” Sharif said. 

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including politicians, government officials, PCB representatives, members of the national men’s cricket team, Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise owners, and former PCB chairmen Zaka Ashraf and Najam Sethi. The ceremony celebrated the completion of Gaddafi Stadium's renovation in just 117 days.

At the event, renowned singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, and Aima Baig performed for the audience, followed by a stunning fireworks display, a vibrant drum show, and a unique light show. 

"This ceremony is a celebration of our hard work and the revival of a historic cricketing venue," said PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during his address.

The renovated Gaddafi Stadium is now equipped with state-of-the-art LED lights, two large scoreboard screens, upgraded seating for spectators, newly built hospitality boxes, and improved facilities for both players and fans.

The stadium is set to host two matches of the tri-nation ODI series between Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa on February 8 and 10, 2025. Additionally, it will host at least four matches of the Champions Trophy, including the second semi-final on March 5. If India fails to qualify, Gaddafi Stadium may also host the final of the tournament on March 9, 2025.