With the much-anticipated semi-final match scheduled to start at 2:00 pm, iftar is scheduled for 6:05 pm.
Champions Trophy 2025: PCB to Offer Free Iftar for Fans During Semi-Final in Lahore. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that it will provide free iftar for fans attending the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy between New Zealand and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore tomorrow (Wednesday).
Fans with valid match tickets can avail of an iftar box that includes dates, juice and a mini pizza.
The initiative is aimed at enhancing the match day experience for participants fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
In addition to the free iftar, various food and drink items will also be available at the stadium’s food stalls.
With the much-anticipated semi-final match scheduled to start at 2:00 pm, iftar is scheduled for 6:05 pm.
The PCB’s decision to offer free iftar underscores its commitment to accommodating fans and creating a more inclusive and enjoyable atmosphere at the stadium.
South Africa will resume their painful quest for their first piece of ICC silverware since 1998 when they take on New Zealand in the Champions Trophy semi-final in Lahore on Wednesday.
The pair have faced each other in the 50-over format only twice since 2019 – most recently in a tri-series match in Lahore on February 10.
Batting first, South Africa scored 304 for six but their inexperienced bowling line-up could not contain the New Zealanders, who won by six wickets with eight balls to spare.
South Africa will pack a lot of punch in the bowling department this time, with pacers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Johnson as well as spinner Keshav Maharaj in their attack.
South Africa have reached the semi-finals or final of ICC tournaments on 13 occasions in both limited-overs formats, with the only other title to come from the 1998 Champions Trophy.
They reached the semi-finals of the 50-over World Cup in 2023 but lost to Australia, and last year’s T20 World Cup final, where they lost to India despite winning some matches.
They will also play the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in June.
New Zealand’s record is no different. Their only ICC limited-overs tournament win came in the 2000 Champions Trophy, and they have been close to a close call over the years.
South Africa have called up spinner George Linde as cover for Aiden Markram, who injured his hamstring in their last pool game in a seven-wicket win over England.
Linde will arrive in Lahore on Tuesday night, so his appearance on Wednesday is unlikely. His selection as a travel reserve is more likely to be a look-back for the potential slow-paced final against India in Dubai on Sunday.
