PCB Denies Rescheduling ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Amid Renovation Efforts

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) refutes rumors about rescheduling the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. PCB clarifies that stadium renovations will not impact the tournament dates, emphasizing their commitment to delivering a high-quality event across Pakistan's top venues despite the ongoing redevelopment projects.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed reports that next year's ICC Champions Trophy will be rescheduled. The clarification came after claims surfaced from statements made by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi regarding stadium redevelopment efforts.

Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan, the PCB has authorized the renovation of three major stadiums: Karachi's National Stadium, Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, and Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium at a cost of Rs12.8 billion, according to Geo News. Chairman Naqvi acknowledged significant disparities between international stadiums and those in Pakistan during a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium.

Naqvi stated, "The Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) team is working tirelessly. We aim to make our stadiums world-class... the Champions Trophy will indeed occur in Pakistan. Match dates might shift slightly, but we are coordinating with security agencies to ensure readiness." PCB later issued a statement criticizing certain media outlets for misrepresenting Naqvi's comments, which led to unfounded speculation about the tournament's schedule.

The PCB affirmed that the stadium renovations would be completed on schedule, ensuring these venues are prepared to host the event. The statement confirmed, "The PCB Chair mentioned that while some domestic matches might be relocated to facilitate construction, this does not pertain to the ICC Champions Trophy." The PCB is dedicated to hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy at three premier Pakistani venues, aiming to deliver an exceptional experience for cricket fans. They have already submitted a draft schedule to the ICC, with proposed dates from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

Additionally, PCB has decided to move the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi because of ongoing construction at the Karachi National Stadium.

(With inputs from agencies.)