The former presidents of the Cricket Board of Pakistan (PCB), Najam Sethi and Zaka Ashraf, have praised the remarkable transformation of the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, highlighting their rapid development in a short period.
Speaking about the change of significant image, both leaders praised the efforts behind the renewal, describing the rhythm and scope of the project as extraordinary.
“I have witnessed firsthand how the stadium has evolved, and this transformation in record time is a testimony of the hard work and the commitment of all involved within a year,” said Najam Sethi, recognizing the outstanding improvements that have improved significantly the place.
Zaka Ashraf echoed Sethi’s feelings, qualifying the transformation an excellent example of how sports infrastructure can be revitalized efficiently. “The Gaddafi stadium now stands as a modern installation, and the speed with which it was achieved is commendable,” Ashraf said.
Yesterday, at a significant time, only a few days before the Trophy of Men Champions of the ICC 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif officially opened the newly renewed Gaddafi stadium on Friday, marking a new era in the 65 years of history of the iconic place .
The night had actions by the renowned singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lhaha and Aima Baig, followed by a spectacular battery performance and a dazzling fireworks exhibition. An impressive light show will even more raised the greatness of the event.
During his speech, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed immense joy for the successful and remarkable completion of the renewal of the Gaddafi stadium, while recognizing the efforts of the entire team involved, including contractors and workers, under the supervision of the president of the president of the president of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, who did this possible.
Previously, speaking on the occasion, the president of PCB declared that approximately four months ago, the prime minister placed the base stone for this project. The stadium was an ancient structure, and our goal was to complete its renewal against the Champions Trophy.
He mentioned that almost 2,500 workers worked day and night, and in just 117 days, they managed to build a state -of -the -art stage.
He praised the Frontier works organization (FWO) for doing the impossible possible and thanked Pakistan’s army for his crucial support, which allowed the completion of the project in record time.
Naqvi added that after almost 30 years, the country is ready to organize an important tournament and, together, we will guarantee its success.
The opening ceremony promises to be an unforgettable experience, with a vibrant mixture of music, dance and fireworks. Fans treated at the free admission, with the stadium doors that open at 5:30 pm, except the Imran Khan enclosure, which is reserved for special guests.
The newly improved Gaddafi stadium now has more brilliant LED lights, two large markers and seats imported in all enclosures, improving the display experience for spectators. In addition, around 10,000 new seats have been added, increasing the capacity of the place.
Updates also include newly built hospitality boxes and improved facilities for players and fans, ensuring a world class experience for all.
The successful completion of the transformation of the stadium in time for the Champions Trophy was not a small feat, but under Naqvi’s leadership, the PCB delivered the project in just 117 days.
The Gaddafi Stadium will begin its subsequent trip to the renewal with the opening match of the Tri-Nation Odi series on February 8, where New Zealand will face what promises to be an exciting encounter. The stadium will also organize four games of the ICC champions trophy, including the second semifinal.
