The International Cricket Council (ICC) has granted a special exemption to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to complete renovation and upgrade work at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, and National Stadium, Karachi, ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
While ICC usually takes control of venues before its tournaments, it has given PCB extra time to finalize preparations. The ICC’s official support period begins on February 12, but before that, PCB has been allowed to host a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa at these venues from February 8—originally planned for Multan.
With Pakistan keen to test both stadiums ahead of the Champions Trophy, the ICC’s approval ensures the necessary upgrades can be completed in time. Meanwhile, PCB recently shared a video showcasing progress at Gaddafi Stadium, silencing Indian media speculations that the tournament might be relocated due to incomplete renovations.