Why Is Dharmasena in Awe of the New-Look Gaddafi Stadium?

Naeem Khan Niazi

Lahore: Sri Lankan cricket legend and ICC elite panel umpire Kumar Dharmasena was left in awe of the transformed Gaddafi Stadium during his first visit after its extensive revamp.

The former cricketer, who is set to officiate in the high-stakes England-Australia clash of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 on Saturday, praised the stadium’s modern infrastructure and international-standard facilities.

In a video message shared on social media Friday, Dharmasena expressed his excitement and nostalgia as he revisited the venue where Sri Lanka lifted its first and only ICC Men’s ODI World Cup trophy in 1996. At the time, he was a 24-year-old squad member celebrating his country’s historic triumph.

“I feel honored to be back here, this time as an umpire. Gaddafi Stadium holds a special place in Sri Lankan cricket history, and to see it in this spectacular new form is truly remarkable,” Dharmasena shared with a smile.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), under Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, spearheaded the stadium’s rapid reconstruction, completing the overhaul in a record 117 days. The stadium, now boasting world-class amenities, hosted its first match post-renovation on February 8, 2025, when Pakistan faced New Zealand in a tri-nation series

With the Champions Trophy bringing global cricket action to Pakistan, Gaddafi Stadium’s facelift signals the country’s readiness to host major international events, earning accolades from players and officials alike.