“We Win, You Lose”: PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Responds to Social Media Critics Amid Stadium Upgrades

Pakistan Successfully Completes Stadium Renovations Ahead of Champions Trophy

In a bold response to critics, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hit back at social media detractors who had questioned the board’s ability to complete the renovation of Karachi and Lahore stadiums ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, set to commence on February 19.

Amid widespread skepticism regarding the timely completion of infrastructure projects, particularly following delays and changes in venue for previous international fixtures, the PCB has delivered on its promise. Both Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium are now fully prepared to host matches for the prestigious ICC event.

Naqvi, speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the newly upgraded National Bank Stadium in Karachi, addressed the skepticism with a confident statement:

“We win, you lose. This is for those who claimed on social media that we could not complete the construction of this stadium. If we had failed, you would have won. However, by successfully completing this project, we won, and you lose now,” Naqvi remarked, as reported by Geo News.

This sharp retort marks a strong defensive stance from the PCB chairman, who has overseen the stadium redevelopment efforts amid mounting pressure and scrutiny.

Background: Challenges Faced in Stadium Renovations

Over the past several months, concerns had been raised over Pakistan’s readiness to host the Champions Trophy, particularly regarding the pace of renovations at key venues.

• In 2024, a bilateral Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh was shifted from Karachi to Rawalpindi, fueling concerns over the state of Karachi’s cricketing infrastructure.
• The deadline for stadium renovations was extended, leading to speculation about whether PCB could complete the upgrades in time.
• Persistent doubts were voiced across social media and cricketing circles, questioning whether Pakistan had the logistical capacity to deliver world-class facilities for the Champions Trophy.

Despite these hurdles, the PCB has successfully completed the upgradation process, proving its critics wrong by ensuring that both Karachi and Lahore stadiums meet ICC standards.

Lahore and Karachi Stadiums Ready for Champions Trophy Action

As a testament to the successful renovation efforts, Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium recently hosted two tri-nation matches, featuring contests between Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa. These matches served as a litmus test for the stadium’s preparedness and operational efficiency, with positive feedback received regarding the playing conditions and facilities.

Similarly, the National Bank Stadium in Karachi has undergone a significant transformation. The newly constructed pavilion boasts:

• State-of-the-art dressing rooms for players and match officials.
• Enhanced hospitality suites for VIP and corporate guests.
• Modernized spectator stands, improving the viewing experience for fans.

Naqvi, acknowledging the successful completion of the Karachi upgrades, made an interesting admission:

“I admit here that Karachi Stadium looks better than Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.”

With the final infrastructure adjustments now in place, Karachi is set to host a high-stakes ODI tri-nation series match between Pakistan and South Africa on Wednesday, providing a preview of what fans can expect in the Champions Trophy.

Significance of Stadium Upgrades for Pakistan Cricket

The successful completion of stadium renovations holds profound significance for Pakistan cricket, particularly in the context of global cricketing events.

1. Strengthening Pakistan’s Status as a Host Nation

   • Hosting the Champions Trophy is a landmark event, marking Pakistan’s return as a host for an ICC tournament after more than two decades.
   • The ability to deliver modernized, world-class cricketing venues strengthens Pakistan’s credibility as a major cricketing destination.

2. Boosting International Confidence in Pakistan’s Infrastructure

   • Since international cricket fully resumed in Pakistan, infrastructure and security concerns have been recurring themes.
   • Successfully executing high-profile events like the Champions Trophy showcases Pakistan’s capacity to handle large-scale sporting competitions.

3. Enhancing Fan Experience and Cricketing Standards

   • The newly upgraded facilities elevate the playing experience for international cricketers while providing enhanced viewing conditions for spectators.
   • Modern infrastructure aligns with global stadium standards, ensuring Pakistan remains competitive in securing future ICC events.

PCB’s Determination Amidst Criticism

The criticism faced by PCB was not entirely unfounded—delays in completing stadium upgrades had raised genuine concerns. However, Naqvi’s confidence and the PCB’s ability to meet deadlines have now positioned Pakistan in a favorable light.

By ensuring that the stadiums are ready before the tournament kicks off, the PCB has delivered a clear message to its critics:

• Pakistan is ready to host the Champions Trophy at full capacity.
• Infrastructure concerns have been addressed and resolved.
• Social media speculations and doubts have been disproven.

Naqvi’s “We win, you lose” remark, while confrontational, reflects the board’s determination to stand its ground and showcase its achievements in the face of skepticism.

What’s Next? Champions Trophy Set for Historic Kickoff in Pakistan

With just a week remaining before the Champions Trophy 2025 begins, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s organizational execution as it welcomes top cricketing nations.

• The opening match is scheduled for February 19, marking the first ICC event hosted in Pakistan since the 1996 Cricket World Cup.
• Karachi and Lahore, now equipped with modernized facilities, will play a central role in the tournament’s success.
• The National Bank Stadium’s first major test will be the Pakistan vs South Africa tri-series match, offering a glimpse of the venue’s readiness.

With the stage set for a historic tournament, Pakistan has successfully silenced its critics and reaffirmed its status as a legitimate host for elite international cricket.

The Champions Trophy is not just a cricketing event for Pakistan—it is a symbolic milestone, showcasing the nation’s resilience, capability, and passion for the sport.