PCB accelerates Karachi stadium renovations ahead of ICC Champions Trophy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is working hard to finish renovations at the National Stadium in Karachi before the Champions Trophy next month. Matches originally planned for the stadium have been moved to other locations. The stadium is set to host the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19.

"Due to the ongoing construction and renovation work it was decided against holding any matches at the NSK as it would only further delay the work and also disturb the players," one official said.

The decision to relocate matches is to avoid further delays in the renovation work and to minimize disruption to players.

The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final, Pakistan's premier first-class cricket competition, has been moved from the National Stadium to the UBL Complex. The final began on Thursday at the UBL Complex.

The PCB also announced a change of venue for the two-Test series against the West Indies. The series, initially scheduled to begin in Karachi, will now be played entirely in Multan later this month.

While some of the construction work met the December 15 deadline, the PCB has urged the construction company to expedite the remaining work. The PCB's goal is to have the stadium ready in time for the Champions Trophy.

The PCB is investing heavily in renovations at the three venues hosting the Champions Trophy: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. The total investment is approximately Rs 12 billion.

The renovations at the National Stadium in Karachi are extensive. They include upgrades to the main building, new dressing rooms, media centers, hospitality boxes, and board offices. A new electronic scoreboard is being installed. New chairs are being placed in the enclosures, and the fencing around the ground is being entirely replaced.

The PCB is committed to providing top-notch facilities for the Champions Trophy. The renovations aim to enhance the experience for players, officials, and fans.