Feature

Pakistan’s Gaddafi Stadium set for new look ahead of ICC World XI

The Gaddafi Stadium cricket ground in Lahore, Pakistan, will undergo renovation work ahead of hosting a three-match series between the country’s national team and the International Cricket Council (ICC) World XI next week.

The 27,000-capacity venue, which opened in November 1959, is due to stage the matches from September 12-15, and stadium management is keen to ensure that the venue looks the part for the major event.

According to the Nation.com website, renovation, whitewash and paint work will all take place over the coming days, while various enclosures inside the stadium have been cleaned and broken plastic chairs replaced.

Other work will include decorating the outside of the venue, as well as ensuring that all visitors have access to drinking water while inside the stadium.

An unnamed PCB official said: “The arena will be tastefully decorated before the lunch of the series as we still have few days left to give the entire stadium a new look.

“This visit has its own significance as it will mark the return of international cricket in Pakistan and we look forward to organise this series in a trend-setting manner.”

In addition, ground staff are preparing the wickets and outfield, and have cut the grass into an attractive pattern.

The PCB official added: “The outfield is being watered to keep the grass green and the pitches are prepared in a professional manner.

“The preparations are very similar to the final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which we successfully organised earlier this year.

“We will be utilising our experience of holding the PSL final during the matches of the series to make this event a big success.”

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