Champions Trophy: PM Shehbaz inaugurates newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium

• PM hails completion of Gaddafi renovation in record 117 days.
• Premier hopes for Pakistan team's victory in Champions Trophy.
• PCB unveils cricket team's official jersey for upcoming tournament.

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Days before the start of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, marking a new chapter in the iconic cricket stadium’s 65-year history.

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, who is also a interior minister, 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.

PM Shehbaz also distributed shields among top officials who performed responsibilities during the renovation work at the stadium which would host international matches of the Tri-Nation Series and the Champions Trophy this month.

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 featured 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 further enhanced 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.

These enhancements promise a world-class cricketing experience, with improved seating arrangements, superior viewing angles, and a lively atmosphere.

Under Naqvi's leadership, the PCB transformed the venue into a modern cricketing hub in just 117 days.

Gaddafi Stadium will host New Zealand in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series on February 8 (Saturday) and will also be the venue for four matches of the Champions Trophy, including the second semi-final.