Champions Trophy likely to be moved out of Pakistan

Pakistan is facing many huddles to host the upcoming Champions Trophy to begin in Karachi on February 19.

The mega event will be played in a hybrid format with India playing all its games in Dubai. However, as per the latest development, there is a chance that the tournament is likely to be moved out of Pakistan.

As per reports, three stadiums in Pakistan where the matches will be held - Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi - are disappointing. In one of the stadiums, even the plaster work is not complete.

“It is a very disappointing picture. All three stadiums are far from ready and it’s not renovation or refurbishment, but proper construction which is underway. There is so much work left with seats, floodlights, facilities and even the outfield and playing surfaces. It seems difficult that the stadiums will be ready in time,” said an ICC official.

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“The weather is not ideal for construction and finishing work to happen at a rapid pace. At Gadaffi, even the plaster work isn’t completed yet. And most of the time is taken by finishing work because we are talking about dressing rooms etc. They just can’t be random rooms/enclosures for an ICC event. ICC has a checklist which needs to be met,” he added.

As per sources, the next week will give more clarity on the future of the upcoming mega event in Pakistan.