Ooh Lala; National Stadium Karachi's new enclosures named after two legends

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to dedicate enclosures at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi, to two legendary cricketers from the coastal city: Boom Boom Shahid Afridi, fondly called Lala by his peers, and fan-favourite former captain Younis Khan.

Additionally, a newly constructed Patron Enclosure will be named in honour of cricketing greats Zaheer Abbas and Majid Khan, further recognizing the contribution of iconic players to Pakistan cricket.

Both Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi are undergoing significant renovations ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The seating capacity of Gaddafi Stadium has been increased to 35,000 with the installation of new seats throughout the venue. 

Additionally, 480 state-of-the-art LED lights have been added to enhance the broadcast quality and viewing experience. Two large digital replay screens will also be installed in the coming week, while the construction work is expected to be completed by the end of January.

Similarly, Karachi's National Bank Cricket Stadium is being revamped. A new enclosure for players and officials has been built, alongside the installation of 350 LED lights. Two digital replay screens have already been installed, and 5,000 new chairs have been added to the seating arrangement. The PCB curators, led by Australian curator Tony Hemming, are also working to improve the pitches and outfields at both venues.

The  Champions Trophy, often referred to as a Mini World Cup, will begin on February 19, 2025, in Pakistan. 

This marks the first time since the 1996 ICC ODI World Cup and the 2008 Asia Cup that Pakistan will host a major ICC event.

India's matches, however, will be played in the UAE due to a hybrid model agreement between Pakistan and the ICC. As per this agreement, all international events between Pakistan and India until 2028 will take place at neutral venues. India will play their opening match on February 20 against Bangladesh in Dubai.

India has not played a match in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, and no bilateral series have been held between the two nations since Pakistan toured India in 2012-13. The 2023 Asia Cup also followed a hybrid model, with India's matches played in Sri Lanka. 

Despite tensions, the PCB remains committed to delivering a successful tournament that adheres to international standards and protocols.

This Champions Trophy holds special significance for Pakistan, as the team enters the tournament as defending champions. Pakistan last won the event in 2017 under the leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed, defeating India in a historic final.