The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains confident that Karachi’s National Stadium will be ready for the Champions Trophy despite concerns over the venue’s preparedness for the event starting February 19.
Pakistan’s leading English daily Dawn reported that “it seems absolutely impossible to contemplate the renovation work being completed within the deadline, but the personnel handed the responsibility are beaming with confidence.” The newspaper added, “The board would either be hero or zero for taking up such a mammoth task.”
While PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi inspected Rawalpindi Stadium on Tuesday and assured that the Champions Trophy would proceed as planned, it appears unlikely that the board will take control of the renovated venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi by the January 31 deadline.
Other major matches scheduled at these venues include a tri-series featuring New Zealand and South Africa from February 8 to 14, with two games in Lahore and the final two, including the decider, in Karachi.
A source monitoring the renovations noted, “Look, the stadiums will be in a shape to host matches but the question is the PCB has promised everyone a world-class experience at these renovated venues for the Tri-series and Champions Trophy and whether they can deliver on that promise remains to be seen.”
Bilal Chohan, overseeing the renovation, has reportedly faced delays due to a lack of necessary equipment and clearances in Karachi. The panels for the new building were released from Karachi Port only on Sunday night, with installation scheduled for the following morning.
“These are the kind of things we are dealing with, but sometimes it’s sad to see people bashing us,” Chohan said.
The PCB has invested approximately PKR 12 billion in renovations across Lahore and Karachi. While tickets are already on sale, concerns persist until the PCB confirms possession of the upgraded venues.
Meanwhile, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned on Tuesday, with a board member indicating that his inability to provide a clear update on Pakistan’s preparedness was among the factors behind his departure.
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Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
