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Xtra Time Web Desk: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains firm in its stance that Karachi’s National Stadium will be ready to host matches in the upcoming Champions Trophy, even as concerns grow over the venue’s preparedness for the marquee tournament set to begin on February 19.

Pakistan’s prominent English daily Dawn reported on Wednesday that the renovation work at the venue seems highly unlikely to meet the deadline. However, officials overseeing the project remain optimistic. "The board would either be hero or zero for taking up such a mammoth task," the newspaper commented.

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Although PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi inspected the Rawalpindi stadium on Tuesday and reassured that the Champions Trophy would proceed as planned, doubts persist about whether the board will gain full control of the refurbished venues in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi by the January 31 deadline.

Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan is also set to host a four-match tri-series featuring New Zealand and South Africa from February 8 to 14. The first two matches are scheduled in Lahore, while Karachi will host the remaining games, including the final.

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A source closely monitoring the renovation work stated, “Look, the stadiums will be in a shape to host matches, but the question is whether the PCB can deliver on its promise of providing a world-class experience at these venues for the Tri-series and Champions Trophy."

Bilal Chohan, responsible for overseeing the renovations, has reportedly faced delays in acquiring necessary equipment and clearances, particularly in Karachi. The panels for a new stadium building were only released from Karachi Port on Sunday night, with installation scheduled for the following morning.

"These are the kind of things we are dealing with, but sometimes it's sad to see people bashing us," Chohan remarked.

The PCB has allocated approximately PKR 12 billion for the renovation, construction, and installation of facilities across the three venues in Karachi and Lahore. While ticket sales have already begun, uncertainty lingers until the board confirms possession of the revamped stadiums.

Adding to the turmoil, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned on Tuesday, with a board member suggesting that his inability to provide a clear assessment of Pakistan’s readiness for the Champions Trophy was among the reasons for his departure.