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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence in Pakistan in just 42 days, but the host nation is in a race against time to complete critical construction and renovation work at key venues. Despite assurances from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), significant concerns remain about whether Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi will be ready to host this major international tournament.
Delays Plague Preparations
Construction, which began in August 2024, was initially slated for completion by December 31st. However, a series of delays has pushed the deadline back, leaving the PCB scrambling to deliver the stadiums to the ICC by February 12th, 2025. This tight timeline has raised serious doubts about Pakistan’s ability to host the tournament as planned.
A Long-Awaited Return to the International Stage
This Champions Trophy marks Pakistan’s first time hosting a major ICC tournament since the 1996 Cricket World Cup. The event holds immense significance for Pakistan cricket, but the ongoing infrastructural challenges and weather-related delays have cast a shadow over the preparations.
Venues Still Under Construction
Despite the PCB’s optimistic pronouncements, critical upgrades at the venues remain incomplete. Dressing rooms, hospitality boxes, floodlights, seating, and perimeter fencing are all lagging behind schedule. With the tournament set to begin on February 19th, there are growing concerns that rushed construction could compromise safety and quality standards.
ICC Inspection and Contingency Planning
An ICC delegation is expected to arrive in Pakistan this week to assess the situation firsthand. Sources indicate that informal discussions are already underway regarding contingency plans, including the possibility of relocating the entire tournament to the UAE. Such a move would be a major setback for Pakistan’s ambitions to re-establish itself as a leading cricket host.
Pressure Mounts on the PCB
The PCB is now under immense pressure to deliver. While construction crews are working overtime in Karachi and Lahore, there are significant doubts about their ability to meet the ICC’s stringent requirements. This situation is reminiscent of the challenges faced by the USA during their preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, where delays and logistical issues raised concerns about their readiness.
The coming days will be crucial for Pakistan. If the construction work is not completed on time and to the satisfaction of the ICC, the tournament may be moved, dealing a significant blow to Pakistan’s cricketing aspirations.
