New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra sustained a forehead injury during an ODI match against Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium.
The incident occurred when Ravindra misjudged a catch, leading to a blow on his face. Fans and analysts have attributed the mishap to inadequate floodlighting at the venue, intensifying criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not ensuring optimal playing conditions.
In response to mounting concerns, the PCB has initiated significant upgrades to Gaddafi Stadium’s infrastructure. The renovation includes the installation of state-of-the-art LED floodlights across all six towers, aiming to enhance visibility for both players and spectators. As of now, outdated lights on three towers have been dismantled, with the replacement process ongoing for the remaining towers. The project is nearing 50% completion, with expectations to be tournament-ready ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been actively overseeing the renovation efforts. He recently inspected the progress and announced plans to establish a cricket museum and souvenir shop within the stadium premises, aiming to enrich the fan experience. Naqvi emphasized the importance of timely completion to ensure the venue meets international standards for the upcoming tournament.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled from February 19 to March 9, with matches hosted in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host seven games, including the grand finale on March 9.
