Gaddafi Stadium to be Transferred to ICC for Champions Trophy on February 11

News Synopsis
Amid concerns over the readiness of the Champions Trophy venues in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be handed over to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on February 11. The handover is scheduled just over a week before the start of the prestigious ODI tournament, which is set to begin on February 19, 2024.
Final Preparations for the Venue
The PCB posted a video showcasing the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium on its official social media platform, X. The video highlighted the stadium's impressive transformation, particularly under the lights, signaling the venue's readiness for the tri-nation series and the Champions Trophy. A source within the PCB revealed that Gaddafi Stadium would be officially transferred to the ICC for branding and related activities after the completion of the tri-series involving Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
ICC's Deadline for Venue Handover
The International Cricket Council (ICC) had set January 31 as the deadline for the handover of the three stadiums that will host the Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. These stadiums include Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Stadium. However, due to the stadiums’ extensive renovation work, the PCB has asked for an extension to the deadline, with the new handover date set for February 11.
Ongoing Renovation Work at Gaddafi Stadium
Despite the ongoing preparations, the PCB remains confident that Gaddafi Stadium will be ready for the international event. According to PCB sources, the renovation work has been progressing, with the final touches being put in place. The stadium has been under construction for the past six months, with efforts focused on upgrading the infrastructure and enhancing facilities. However, there have been reports indicating that certain areas of the stadium were still being cleaned up, with some rubble remaining on the premises.
National Stadium in Karachi Set to Host Opening Match
The National Stadium in Karachi, another key venue for the Champions Trophy, is expected to be ready in time for the event. The opening match of the tournament, which will feature Pakistan and New Zealand, is scheduled to be held on February 19, 2024, at this venue. The PCB has reassured the public that all three venues—Gaddafi Stadium, National Stadium, and Rawalpindi Stadium—will be fully operational in time for the tournament.
Renovation Costs and Ticket Sales
To prepare the three venues for the Champions Trophy, the PCB has invested approximately PKR 12 billion in renovation, construction, and equipment installation. Despite the ongoing concerns about the readiness of the venues, the PCB has already put tickets for the event on sale. However, until the PCB officially announces possession of the newly renovated stadiums, there will continue to be concerns about their timely completion.
The Ongoing Debate Over Venue Readiness
Recent reports, including one from Pakistan’s leading English daily Dawn, have raised doubts about the feasibility of completing the renovation work by the set deadlines. While the construction sites are reportedly still in progress, the PCB’s confident statements have reassured many that the necessary preparations will be completed on time. Nonetheless, some critics have questioned whether the facilities will be fully ready in time for the event.
ICC CEO's Resignation Amid Growing Concerns
In response to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Champions Trophy preparations in Pakistan, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned from his post. His resignation came after the ICC board expressed dissatisfaction with his failure to provide clear and detailed information on the readiness of the Pakistani venues for the Champions Trophy.
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