Champions trophy controversy: Fans troll PCB for building moat at Gaddafi stadium
The Gaddafi Stadium is set to host at least four matches during the ICC Champions Trophy, and the recent renovations have brought it up to international standards.
Lahore’s historic Gaddafi Stadium has undergone a major renovation, making it fully prepared to host matches for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. One of the most notable upgrades is the construction of a 10-foot-wide and 10-foot-deep moat around the ground, replacing the traditional steel barriers.
This addition serves a dual purpose—enhancing security by preventing unauthorized pitch invasions and improving the stadium’s drainage system. To ensure smooth gameplay, a protective net will be installed over the moat to keep the ball in play.
The Gaddafi Stadium is set to host at least four matches during the prestigious tournament, and the recent renovations have brought it up to international standards. This is also stadium’s most significant transformation since it last received major updates for the 1996 World Cup, which Pakistan co-hosted alongside India and Sri Lanka.
The stadium now also boasts modern LED floodlights, high-resolution SMD screens, and enhanced seating arrangements, creating a better experience for spectators. Additionally, two new VVIP enclosures, named after Pakistan cricket legends Zaheer Abbas and Majid Khan, have been introduced to honor their contributions to the sport.
With these upgrades, the Gaddafi Stadium is now fully equipped to welcome international cricket at the highest level, promising an exciting cricketing spectacle for fans worldwide.
The revamped Gaddafi Stadium is set to be officially inaugurated ahead of Pakistan’s tri-nation series against South Africa and New Zealand, which will serve as a crucial lead-up to the Champions Trophy.
The 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will be co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, with Pakistan aiming to defend their title after winning the 2017 edition. The tournament will also see a leadership change for the national team, as Mohammad Rizwan takes over the captaincy following Babar Azam’s decision to step down after the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
(Except for the headline, nothing has been changed by All india news network in the PTI copy.)
