Malik Waqar
The newly upgraded National Bank Stadium in Karachi was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, following extensive renovations in preparation for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place from February 19 to March 9.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Pakistan Chairman Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and MQM-P Convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.
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The event also saw the participation of Pakistan’s squad for the ongoing tri-nation ODI series and the upcoming eight-team tournament. The occasion celebrated a remarkable achievement: the completion of the stadium’s overhaul in just 120 days.
As part of the festivities, the PCB organized a grand opening ceremony featuring live music, a spectacular fireworks display, and a captivating light show, all with free entry for the public.
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Renowned artists Ali Zafar, Shafqat Amanat Ali, and Sahir Ali Bagga performed for the crowd, followed by an impressive drum and fireworks display, while a unique light show illuminated the night.
Earlier, PCB chairman had said that Karachi’s National Bank Stadium has been upgraded to a higher standard than Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and announced free tickets for workers who contributed to the renovation for the upcoming tri-nation series match on Wednesday.
During a ceremony in Karachi to honour the workers involved in the stadium’s renovation, Naqvi announced that free tickets would be provided to them for the match between Pakistan and South Africa.
He acknowledged that many had doubted the stadium’s renovation, but the workers’ relentless efforts proved otherwise. He praised the workers as the true heroes of this project and noted that the provincial and local governments, especially in terms of parking facilities, had been extremely cooperative.
He stated, “National Bank Stadium now stands as a modern, world-class facility. It will not only host domestic and international matches but also offer an exceptional experience for both players and spectators.”
The PCB chairman also expressed full confidence in the national cricket team, stating that fans should not be discouraged by one or two losses.
He assured that the PCB has complete trust in team captain Rizwan and the selection committee. “Believe in the team, support them, and they will continue to deliver strong performances,” he added.
Improved cricket structure
According to the PCB website, the newly constructed pavilion marks a significant milestone in the stadium’s history, reinforcing PCB’s commitment to improving cricket infrastructure in Pakistan.
The pavilion includes world-class dressing rooms for players and match officials, as well as hospitality rooms for high-level guests. Completed in a record four-month period, this facility highlights the dedication and efficiency behind the stadium’s rapid improvements.
Alongside the new pavilion, several key upgrades have been made to enhance the overall experience at National Bank Stadium. These include the installation of 350 LED lights to improve broadcast quality, the repair of two digital replay screens, and the addition of over 5,000 new seats for spectator comfort.
Naqvi supervised the renovation work and ensured its timely completion by making multiple visits to the stadium. Nearly 5,000 workers contributed tirelessly to give the stadium a new look, ensuring it will be fully operational for the upcoming Tri-Series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The stadium is set to host two matches in the ongoing tri-nation ODI series between Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa on February 12 and 14.
Additionally, it will welcome three key matches of the 2025 Champions Trophy, including the opening game between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19.
