PM inaugurates newly revamped Gaddafi Stadium

Staff Report LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, days before the start of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. The premier appreciated Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, contractors and workers for completing renovation work of Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium in “almost impossible” record period of 117 days. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, he asked Naqvi to appreciate the workers who participated in the renovation work of the stadium by taking them to London visit. He also lauded Pakistani cricketers for exhibiting brilliant performances during their recent matches before entering the upcoming marquee event of the ICC’s Mens Champions Trophy 2025. Premier Shehbaz expressed hope that the Pakistan squad would win the hearts of the Pakistanis by clinching victory in the Champions Trophy and especially, defeating arch-rival India in the upcoming match to be held in Dubai. He expressed pleasure over the organisation of the mega cricketing event in Pakistan after 29 years. The premier added that the Punjab government and the PCB chief would ensure foolproof security arrangements for the upcoming event. Meanwhile, the Pakistan cricket team’s official jersey for the upcoming eight-team tournament of the Champions Trophy was unveiled during the opening ceremony of the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium. The ceremony features music, dance, and fireworks to create a memorable experience for fans, who have been granted free entry. The stadium gates, except for the Imran Khan enclosure reserved for guests, opened to the general public at 5:30pm. The PCB has invited renowned singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar and Aima Baig to enthrall the audience with musical performances, followed by a spectacular drum and fireworks display. A unique light show will further enhance the evening’s grandeur. The upgraded Gaddafi Stadium now features brighter LED lights, two large score screens, and imported seating in all enclosures, ensuring an exceptional viewing experience for fans. Additionally, the stadium now offers enhanced facilities, including newly built hospitality boxes and upgraded amenities for players and spectators. Around 10,000 new seats have been added to expand the venue’s capacity.Meanwhile, the Pakistan cricket team’s official jersey for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 was unveiled on Friday during the grand opening ceremony of the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) showcasing the national squad in their official jerseys for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. “Our squad in Pakistan’s official ICC Champions Trophy 2025 jersey,” the PCB announced. Accompanying the image, the board asked fans, “How good does it look on them?” The post has sparked excitement among cricket enthusiasts as Pakistan gears up for the prestigious tournament.