ICC Raises Concerns Over Karachi Stadium Sight Screens, Urges ICC to Compensate Fans

On the day Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally opened the refurbished Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the National Stadium in Karachi received some flak from the International Cricket Council (ICC). The ICC expressed concern over the positioning of two massive screens, which would obstruct the view for most spectators. As per reports, the global cricket body criticized the PCB for not planning the seating arrangement before putting up the screens which led to frustration among the ticket holders.

It is interesting to note that the renovation work of the Gaddafi Stadium was delayed several times before it could be completed. At the grand inauguration, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and several other officials were also there. The crowd was very much into it as the fans that filled up the stadium had a brilliant light and sound show with amazing fireworks to kickstart the celebration.

The biggest moment of the event was the unveiling of the new cricket jersey of Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy. This was followed by the excitement of the performance by folk singer Arif Lohar along with Aima Baig and Ali Zafar while they sang the famous song "Dil Dil Pakistan" which electrified the atmosphere of the home crowd.

PCB chairman Naqvi is optimistic about Pakistan's chances in the Champions Trophy. He also stressed the need to defeat their great rival India in their match in Dubai. He also celebrated the return of major international cricket tournaments to Pakistan after almost three decades.

PCB Chairman Honors Stadium Workers with Special Lunch

Gaddafi Stadium is to host key matches, the second semi-final of the Champions Trophy, and the final depending on India's qualifying. The stadium will also open with the tri-nation series opening match, between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 9, and then South Africa against New Zealand on February 10.

Earlier in the day, the PCB Chairman hosted a special lunch for the 15,000 laborers who worked hard to renovate the stadium. It was a thoughtful gesture to recognize their role in the achievement of the project's success.