The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Wednesday dismissed reports suggesting that next year’s ICC Champions Trophy is being rescheduled.
The PCB issued a statement following remarks by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi regarding stadium redevelopment. In preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted in Pakistan, the PCB has allocated Rs 12.8 billion for the renovation of the National Stadium in Karachi, the Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, and the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, according to Geo News.
Speaking at a press conference while reviewing the renovation work at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi said that there is a huge difference between international stadiums and those in Pakistan.
“There is a huge difference between international stadiums and ours; none of our stadiums meet international standards,” Naqvi was quoted by Geo News. “The Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) team is working tirelessly. We are committed to making our stadiums among the best in the world. Providing basic facilities is our top priority. The Champions Trophy will definitely take place in Pakistan. While match dates might be adjusted, the PCB is actively coordinating with security agencies. Our primary goal is to ensure these stadiums are ready for the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi added.
Following these remarks, the PCB issued a statement saying, “It is disappointing that certain media outlets have misrepresented PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi’s comments from yesterday’s media interaction, misleadingly quoting him on the possibility of a change in dates for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to security concerns, thus creating unnecessary sensationalism.”
The PCB said that Naqvi’s comments regarding the redevelopment and redesigning of stadiums will ensure their readiness to host the tournament as scheduled. “The PCB Chair also mentioned that while some domestic matches may need to be shifted to facilitate uninterrupted construction work, this does not pertain to the ICC Champions Trophy, which remains a priority for the PCB as a premier eight-team international event,” the statement said.
“The PCB is fully committed to hosting a world-class ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at three of Pakistan’s iconic venues, ensuring an unforgettable experience for our passionate cricket fans. In line with this commitment, the PCB has already submitted a draft schedule to the International Cricket Council (ICC), with the proposed dates spanning from 19 February to 9 March 2025,” the statement added.
Earlier on Sunday, the PCB decided to shift the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to ongoing construction work at Karachi National Stadium for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.