The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just over a month away, but Pakistan’s preparations for hosting the tournament are at risk. The renovation and upgradation work at key stadiums, including Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, National Stadium in Karachi, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, has fallen significantly behind schedule. With the February 12 deadline rapidly approaching, concerns are rising about whether Pakistan can meet the requirements, and discussions about moving the tournament to the UAE have gained momentum.
Delays in Stadium Renovations
A Slow Start
Renovation efforts began in August 2024, with an original completion target of December 31, 2024. However, progress has been slower than expected, leaving the venues far from ready. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to visit Pakistan soon to assess the situation, with informal discussions about backup plans being considered, including moving the tournament to Dubai. Sources within the ICC have described the current state of the venues as “disappointing,” with significant work still needed, including installing floodlights, constructing new enclosures, and upgrading player facilities.
Gaddafi Stadium: Key Challenges
Major Infrastructure Gaps
Gaddafi Stadium, one of the tournament’s most important venues, is facing significant issues as it prepares to host crucial matches, including one semi-final and potentially the final. The multi-storied enclosures that will house the dressing rooms and hospitality boxes are not completed. Additionally, essential infrastructure like fencing, floodlights, and seating arrangements is still a work in progress. The playing surface and outfield are also not ready, raising concerns about the venue’s overall safety and quality.
Weather-Related Delays
The weather has added to the delays. A source revealed that plaster work at Gaddafi Stadium is still unfinished, and much of the construction is held up due to the focus on finishing work to meet ICC standards, especially regarding the dressing rooms.
National Stadium and Rawalpindi: Struggling to Meet Deadlines
National Stadium’s Setbacks
Similar issues are being faced at the National Stadium in Karachi, where some enclosures will be left unfinished due to time constraints. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is also struggling to meet deadlines, with substantial work still required in several key areas.
ICC’s Growing Concerns
Pressure to Meet Standards
The ICC has a detailed checklist for tournament venues, ensuring that player safety, infrastructure quality, and the spectator experience meet international standards. With stadiums still far from meeting these criteria, the possibility of hosting the tournament in semi-finished venues is not an option.
A source monitoring the situation said, “It’s clear what will happen if PCB misses deadlines and venues don’t meet ICC’s checklist. The tournament can’t be played at semi-ready venues. The next week will provide clarity, but PCB and ICC need to pull off a miracle together.”
Backup Plans: UAE in the Spotlight
UAE as a Potential Host
Given the significant delays, the ICC is reportedly considering moving the tournament to the UAE, which has a strong track record of hosting successful cricket events, including the IPL and the T20 World Cup. While this would ensure the tournament goes smoothly, it would be a major setback for Pakistan, which is eager to host a global cricket event on its home soil.
PCB Under Pressure
With less than two months to go, the PCB faces enormous pressure to fast-track construction and meet the ICC’s strict standards. This situation mirrors the logistical problems faced by the USA during last year’s T20 World Cup, highlighting the risks of insufficient preparation.
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