Ali Zafar to thrill fans at Gaddafi Stadium opening ceremony tonight

LAHORE: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 celebrations will officially kick off tonight with live performances by Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, and Aril Lohar followed by fire works at the opening of the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been invited as the chief guest for the grand unveiling, where he will officially inaugurate the redesigned stadium.

The venue has undergone extensive upgrades to enhance the match-day experience for players and spectators.

Pakistani fan request to Kane Williamson has the Kiwi in stitches

To ensure maximum fan engagement, the PCB has announced free entry for spectators, with gates opening at 5:30 PM and the Gaddafi Stadium reopening ceremony commencing at 7 PM. However, the Imran Khan enclosure will remain closed to the public.

Adding to the festivities, PCB has also planned a special event at Karachi’s National Stadium, where President Asif Ali Zardari will be the chief guest.

ICC RELEASES OFFICIAL ANTHEM TEASER

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled a teaser for the official anthem of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, featuring renowned Pakistani singer Atif Aslam.

Shared on the ICC’s social media platforms, the teaser gives a sneak peek into the excitement surrounding the tournament, which will be hosted in Pakistan.

The full anthem is set to release on Friday, building anticipation as the Champions Trophy returns after an eight-year gap.

FIRST MATCH AT NEW GADDAFI STADIUM

The on-field action will officially begin on February 8, when Pakistan takes on New Zealand in the Tri-Nation Series—the first match to be played in the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium. This series will serve as a prelude to the ICC Champions Trophy, where Pakistan and New Zealand will face off again in the tournament opener on February 19 at Karachi’s National Stadium.

As the global cricket spotlight turns to Pakistan, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises to bring thrilling contests between the world’s best teams.