PCB sought ICC support amid cost overruns in stadium renovations: Mohsin Naqvi – Sport

LAHORE: Despite completing the extensive reconstruction of three main stages in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi within a 9 -day record term, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has faced excess costs, which takes the board to the Board seek financial assistance from the International Cricket Council of the Criteria (ICC).

When addressing a press conference here on Friday after the end of the renewal of the Gaddafi Stadium, the president of PCB, Mohsin Naqvi, explained that the highest expenses arose from additional updates such as sound systems, screens and LED lights.

To compensate for costs, Mohsin revealed that the PCB had negotiated an agreement with the CPI. Under this agreement, the CPI will compensate the PCB with an amount three times the expected income of the sale of tickets for the next Champions Trophy matches.

Although the president refrained from revealing specific details of the financial agreement, the sources confirmed that the agreement would significantly facilitate the financial burden of the PCB.

When it was pressed to obtain details on the increase in the budget for stadium renovations, Mohsin refused to reveal exact figures. However, he assured the media that the stadiums were ready to organize not only the Champions Trophy, but also the next TRI-Nation series with Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand.

“We have ensured that the quality of work has not been compromised,” said Mohsin. “Although the construction speed was fast, we adhere to our deadline of January 31.”

Mohsin also pointed out that some external work was still done to improve the environment of the stadium, with the Lahore parks and horticulture authority involved in the beautification process.

Reflecting on the public response to the renovations of the stadium, the president of PCB recognized the combination of positive and negative criticism.

“I appreciate all the comments, whether constructive or critical,” he added.

Regarding the Cricket Rawalpindi stadium, Mohsin mentioned that although it had not been completed due to structural problems, the PCB plans to finish the project in the next seven to eight months. In addition, a new stadium will be built in Islamabad, with an already selected site.

When addressing concerns about the new seats, Mohsin defended the decision to import chairs from China.

“Bringing these chairs within 90 days was an important challenge,” he explained. “They are five times more profitable than the previous ones and come with a 20 -year warranty.”

Mohsin also confirmed that the stadiums would be fully prepared for the next matches, with all external work to complete before February 7, when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will open the Gaddafi stadium. President Asif Ali Zardari will open the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 11. A special ceremony for the Champions Trophy will take place in Lahore on February 16.

However, due to programming conflicts, the traditional opening ceremony of the tournament, which generally involves all teams and a photo shoot with captains, will not take place. Mohsin attributed the interruption to the team’s travel schedules, including India, England and Australia, who delayed his arrival in Pakistan.

Mohsin also mentioned that despite the tense political relations with India, the Cricket Control Board in India had been invited to send representatives for the Champions Trophy, and was hoping that the key officials attended.

In recognition of the arduous work done by the workforce to complete the stadiums, Mohsin announced that a special banquet will be held on his honor on February 7 in Lahore and on February 11 in Karachi. The workers will also be invited to attend the Tri-Nation series matches in both cities.

Posted in Dawn, February 1, 2025



Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *