Karachi’s upgraded National Stadium inaugurated ahead of ICC Champions Trophy

(Karachi): The newly upgraded National Bank Stadium in Karachi was officially opened on Tuesday after major renovations were completed for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place from February 19 to March 9.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by important figures, including Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and MQM-P Convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui. Pakistan's squad for the ongoing tri-nation ODI series and the upcoming eight-team tournament were also present at the event.

The renovation of the stadium was completed in just 120 days, which was a huge achievement. To celebrate, the PCB held a grand opening ceremony with live music, a fireworks show, and a light display. The event was free for the public to attend. Famous singers like Ali Zafar, Shafqat Amanat Ali, and Sahir Ali Bagga performed for the crowd, and the night ended with a stunning fireworks and drum display.

Earlier, the PCB chairman mentioned that the upgraded National Bank Stadium is now better than Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. He also announced that workers who helped with the renovations would receive free tickets for the upcoming match between Pakistan and South Africa in the tri-nation series.

During a ceremony in Karachi, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi praised the workers for their hard work in completing the renovations. He called them the true heroes of the project and thanked the local and provincial governments for their support, especially in providing parking facilities. Naqvi added that the National Bank Stadium is now a modern, world-class venue, ready to host both domestic and international matches.

He also expressed full confidence in Pakistan’s national cricket team. Naqvi encouraged fans not to be discouraged by one or two losses, saying that the PCB has complete trust in team captain Rizwan and the selection committee. He urged fans to continue supporting the team as they work to deliver strong performances.