Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has vowed that the National Stadium Karachi has been renovated to a higher standard than Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Speaking at an inauguration ceremony of the stadium’s renovation, Naqvi congratulated all institutions involved in the project, crediting the laborers as the true heroes behind the transformation.
“These workers toiled tirelessly, working 14 to 16 hours a day without a break,” he acknowledged.
Naqvi said that the stadium’s view and overall structure now surpassed those of Gaddafi Stadium.
He also commended the Sindh government and Karachi’s local administration for their support, particularly in facilitating parking arrangements for the venue.
Discussing the national cricket team, Naqvi urged fans to remain supportive and not lose faith after a single defeat.
“Victory and defeat are part of the game. What truly matters is how hard the team is fighting,” he remarked.
He expressed full confidence in the team, stating, “Our cricketers are brave; they have delivered great results before and will continue to do so.”
Naqvi reaffirmed the PCB’s trust in captain Mohammad Rizwan and the selection committee, dismissing doubts about their leadership.
In a gesture of appreciation, Naqvi announced free match tickets for the workers who played a role in the stadium’s reconstruction, ensuring their direct distribution without interference.
While, in recognition of their efforts in renovating the National Stadium Karachi, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi hosted a lavish feast for the 700 workers who contributed to the stadium’s construction and upgrades.
Naqvi personally visited the Chairman’s Box in the newly renovated building to assess the arrangements.
The workers were treated to a hearty meal, including pulao, beef qorma, chicken tikka, cold drinks, and desserts.
A large number of workers attended the grand event, celebrating their hard work.
During an informal interaction, Naqvi engaged with the workers, inquiring, “How many days have you been working here?” He greeted them, moving from table to table to shake hands and exchange conversations.
Addressing the workers, Naqvi made a special promise, stating, “You will receive free tickets to the match.” He assured them that, unlike in Lahore, where a company allegedly distributed match tickets to relatives instead of workers, such mismanagement would not happen in Karachi.
“You will collect your tickets directly from your company,” Naqvi told the workers. His warm engagement and commitment were met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the workers, who played a crucial role in preparing the stadium for upcoming cricket events.