
LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced that the board would seek revenue instead of complimentary passes from the International Cricket Council (ICC) following the stadium upgrades.
He made these remarks during a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday.
Naqvi revealed that the official inauguration of the revamped Gaddafi Stadium is scheduled for February 7.
Meanwhile, he added, the National Stadium Karachi’s inauguration is set for February 11, with President Asif Ali Zardari expected to attend as the chief guest.
The PCB chairman also announced that the Champions Trophy opening ceremony will be held on February 16, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as the chief guest.
Highlighting the financial aspects of the stadium’s renovation, Naqvi said that additional expenses were incurred due to the installation of a new sound system and LED lights.
To manage costs, the PCB has opted to seek revenue instead of availing complimentary passes typically provided by the ICC. “We have requested revenue in place of ICC passes provided to host countries. This decision was made to compensate for the significant expenses incurred during the upgrades.”
He clarified that PCB operates independently of federal government grants, using its own resources for these developments.
Regarding the Champions Trophy squad updates, Naqvi said that the team would be announced today.
In response to a question about the inclusion of Saim Ayub in the squad, the chairman mentioned that the young opener has been advised by doctors to rest for another four to five weeks due to an injury.
It may be added here that three major stadiums across the country, including the Gaddafi Cricket stadium in Lahore, the National Stadium in Karachi, and the Rawalpindi Cricket stadium, have been renovated in preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Earlier in the day, the PCB announced a complete schedule of events for the Champions Trophy, set to take place from February 19 to March 9.