Mohsin Naqvi summoned for briefing on PSL, stadium renovations

The Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat has once again summoned Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The committee has requested a detailed briefing on the performance of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as well as an account of the expenses incurred in renovating cricket stadiums in Karachi and Lahore.

In addition, Mohsin Naqvi will brief the committee on the overall performance of the PCB over the past six months.

The PCB spent approximately PKR 12 billion on upgrading stadiums in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. These renovations were aimed at bringing the venues up to international standards.

Both the National Stadium in Karachi (NSK) and Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore were handed over to the PCB in early February after major upgrades, just two weeks before the start of the Champions Trophy, which kicked off on February 19.

Key upgrades included new seating arrangements, digital scoreboards, renovated washrooms, a pedestrian bridge, modern LED floodlights, and enhanced dressing rooms. A new five-storey building at NSK was constructed, housing physio rooms, anti-corruption units, and media facilities. Gaddafi Stadium received similar treatment, including a light show setup for fan entertainment during matches.

These changes were tested during a pre-tournament tri-series involving Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand, and aimed to improve the experience for both players and spectators.

The Champions Trophy concluded on March 9, with India defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Now, with the tournament concluded, the committee seeks transparency on how the significant funds were spent and how the PCB has managed its operations during this high-stakes period.