The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today declared the scheduled for the tri-country ODI series, including New Zealand and South Africa. The series will be played on a single-league premise from 8 to 14 February, with Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium hosting the opening two matches and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium organizing the final league match and the final.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the tri-series will serve as a build-up to the eight-nation Champions Trophy, the first ICC event in the country since the 1996 World Cup.
“The tri-series between Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand will be an exciting event and it is after a long time that Pakistan will host such a tournament,” Naqvi said in the PCB release.
“The PCB is also looking forward to hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 which will be a great pleasure for Pakistan to host the top eight ODI teams on its soil.”
Pakistan and New Zealand will start the series at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, 8 February, with the first ball scheduled to be bowled at 1400 (nearby time). New Zealand will then face South Africa on Monday, 10 February, in a day match with the toss set for 0900 (local time).
The action will move to Karachi, where Pakistan will take on South Africa on 12 February in a day/night match at the National Bank Stadium, beginning at 1400 (local time). The last will be played on Friday, 14 February, with the first ball to be bowled at 1400 (local time).
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Both Pakistan and New Zealand are scheduled to train at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday, 6 February, under lights, while South Africa’s first trip to the historic venue will be on the morning of Sunday, 9 February.
“Moreover, 480 latest LED lights have been installed to upgrade broadcast LUX levels, guaranteeing superior viewing insight for fans worldwide. To elevate the spectator experience, two giant digital replay screens—measuring 80 feet x 30 feet and 22 feet x 35 feet—have been installed. A brand-new hospitality nook for players and authorities is close to the end, ensuring that the iconic stadium is completely functional to deliver an unparalleled experience for all stakeholders,” according to PCB.
Huge enhancements have also been made at the Karachi Stadium, including the production of another hospitality enclosure for players and officials at the University End. “To further develop broadcast coverage, 250 LED lights have been introduced, guaranteeing optimal visibility for global audiences. Two digital replay screens have proactively been fixed, and 5,000 new seats have been installed to upgrade spectator comfort.”.