Karachi: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled revamped design of Karachi’s National Stadium, one of the key venues for the tournament. Redesign is part of a larger renovation effort across major cricketing venues in the country, with the first phase set to be completed before the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19, 2025.

According to the PCB, the renovation will be carried out in two phases. The initial phase, focusing on structural upgrades, is targeted for completion ahead of the tournament. The second phase, which includes roofing the entire stadium, will be finalized post-tournament.

The newly approved blueprint reveals significant changes, including the construction of a new building in front of the main structure. This building is expected to accommodate VIP boxes, a gallery, media boxes, and spaces designated for the players’ families. The dressing rooms may also be relocated to this new facility.

Additionally, the old scoreboard building has already been demolished, along with the Iqbal Qasim and Naseem-ul-Ghani enclosures. In light of the ongoing construction, the Pakistan-Bangladesh Test match, scheduled for August 30th, will be held without spectators. The upgrade project encompasses not just the National Stadium in Karachi but also venues in Lahore and Rawalpindi.

The PCB has allocated Rs12.80 billion for the renovations, with a completion deadline set before the Champions Trophy. This effort is part of a broader initiative to modernize Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure in anticipation of the marquee event. Meanwhile, the ICC has approved a budget of approximately $70 million for the Champions Trophy, covering expenses during the support period from February 12 to 18, 2025.