The unveiling comes days after news reports emerged expressing concern over stadium renovations set to miss several deadlines.

In a significant moment just days before the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif officially inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, marking a new era in the iconic venue's 65-year history.

PCB is set to inaugurate the newly upgraded Gaddafi Stadium with a grand opening ceremony on 7 February. The event will include live musical performances, fireworks, a light show, and drum performances ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi thanked the employees for their commitment and hard work, which allowed them to finish the project on time, even in the face of early doubts and criticism.

Pakistan will showcase its newly upgraded stadium at Lahore when it takes on New Zealand in the opening game Saturday of a tri-series cricket tournament, which also involves an understrength South Africa.

Pakistan opened a renovated stadium for the Champions Trophy in Lahore on Friday, one of three to be used in its first major international cricket event in almost 30 years.