‘None of our stadiums are of international standard’: Naqvi

LAHORE: Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi conducted an inspection of the ongoing construction work at Gaddafi Stadium on Monday.

He said that the stadiums in Pakistan are not up to the international standard. Naqvi, who was elected chairman PCB unopposed earlier this year, is determined to get the renovation work done before the 2025 Champions Trophy commences. PCB chief expressed confidence of hosting all teams for 2025 Champions Trophy. He said that he is confident that major teams, including India, will be arriving as planned.

“Let the stadiums be built, and teams from all countries, including India, will come,” Naqvi said while speaking with journalists. “There’s a huge difference between international stadiums and those of ours. None of our stadiums are of international standard.”

He also admitted that completing the renovation work in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi is a difficult task. Naqvi emphasised the importance of completing the excavation work promptly, urging the project teams to work around the clock to ensure that the entire project is finished within the stipulated timeframe. He also highlighted the need for careful planning, especially considering the potential disruptions due to the monsoon rains.

“The first phase of the Gaddafi Stadium upgrade project must be completed before the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi stated, stressing the urgency of the work. He further instructed all parties involved to accelerate the construction efforts to meet the deadlines.

Following the inspection, Naqvi chaired a meeting at the camp office of the Frontier Works Organization (FWO). During the meeting, officials from FWO, Nespak, and PCB provided a detailed briefing on the progress of the project. Naqvi reiterated his instructions to speed up the work, ensuring that the stadium is ready for the upcoming events as planned.