LAHORE:Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday hailed the national cricket team as heroes, expressing confidence that they would triumph in the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Speaking at the inauguration of the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium, he commended the completion of the project in just 117 days. He extended his appreciation to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi for overseeing the construction and congratulated PCB members, directing the chairman to recognize the contributions of all those involved.
The premier humorously remarked that after “Shehbaz Speed,” it was now time for “Mohsin Speed,” acknowledging Naqvi’s swift execution of the project. He also praised the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) for its role in upgrading the stadium.
Shehbaz Sharif lauded the cricket team’s recent performances, expressing hope that they would secure victory in the Champions Trophy. He also voiced optimism about Pakistan defeating India in the tournament, bringing joy to the nation’s 240 million citizens.
Highlighting the importance of teamwork in both sports and governance, he credited his cabinet for the country’s financial stability. Reflecting on the economic challenges of the past eight months, he compared the situation to the fierce pace of Australian bowler Dennis Lillee but emphasized that his team had remained resilient, steering Pakistan out of financial turmoil.
The prime minister celebrated Pakistan’s hosting of a major international cricket event after nearly three decades and thanked Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for facilitating the construction team through provincial support.
He assured that the government would provide robust security arrangements, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for cricket fans.
Welcoming US Consul General Kristin Hawkins at the event, Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the US cricket team would soon visit Pakistan for international matches.
Earlier, he officially inaugurated the revamped stadium. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also addressed the gathering.
The event was attended by Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Federal Ministers Attaullah Tarar, Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazir Tarar, Rana Tanveer, Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad, provincial ministers, senior journalists, and other distinguished guests.
