Amid rising concerns over the readiness of Champions Trophy venues in the country, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has said that the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore would be handed over to the ICC on February 11.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had originally planned for an opening ceremony to take place two to three days before the opening match of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, only for it to reportedly be called off along with the official captains’ photo shoot.

The PCB showcased the upgraded Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, emphasizing their readiness for the Champions Trophy amid concerns over venue preparations. Scheduled to start on February 19, the event's first game is between Pakistan and New Zealand.

The ICC and PCB are yet to confirm if Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, would be travelling to Lahore for the events

The 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy begins on February 19, 2025. Pakistan will face New Zealand in the first match of the much-awaited cricketing event

There is no need for India skipper Rohit Sharma to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy as ICC and PCB have cancelled the opening ceremony or captains photoshoot.

The PCB and ICC are also finalizing details for the captains' press conferences and photo shoots, which are expected to be held in Lahore on February 16, just ahead of the tournament's start.