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The ICC is closely monitoring the ongoing reconstruction work at Pakistan's major stadiums ahead of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, marking the first major international tournament in Pakistan since the 1996 Cricket World Cup. Meanwhile, India will prepare for the tournament by playing warm-up matches in Dubai, given the hybrid model under which India will play all its matches in the UAE.
Pakistan’s Stadium Renovations
Stadium upgrades are underway in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi to meet international standards:
- Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium:
- Increased seating capacity to 35,000 with new chairs.
- Installation of 480 LED floodlights.
- Expected completion by late January.
- Karachi’s National Bank Stadium:
- 350 LED lights, two large digital display screens, and 5,000 new seats.
- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium:
- Addition of 10,000 new seats.
- Enhanced hospitality boxes and digital replay screens.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed concerns over delays, assuring readiness well before the tournament starts.
India's Warm-Up Matches in Dubai
India will play its warm-up matches in Dubai as the ICC finalizes schedules and training facilities for all eight participating teams across four venues.
Champions Trophy Overview
The tournament kicks off on February 19, 2025, featuring two groups of four teams each. It will include 12 league matches, followed by the semi-finals and the final.
Key Matches:
- February 20: India vs. Bangladesh
- February 23: India vs. Pakistan (Dubai)
- March 2: India vs. New Zealand
- March 8: Final (if India qualifies, it will be held in Dubai).
This hybrid model ensures India's participation despite its ongoing reluctance to travel to Pakistan.
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