PESHAWAR: Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium in Peshawar is preparing to host matches after nearly 20 years.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) plans to hold two Pakistan Super League (PSL) maatches at the venue in April. A representative from the International Cricket Council (ICC) recently visited the stadium. Police officials briefed him on security measures.
Authorities reviewed security for foreign players at the stadium, pavilion, hotel routes, and surrounding areas. Proposals include a shuttle service, drone surveillance, and a helipad near the stadium. Officials assured that security arrangements would meet international standards.
The last international match at Arbab Niaz Stadium was played between Pakistan and India in 2006. Since then, the city has not hosted major cricket events due to security concerns and stadium renovations.
Delays and Rising Costs
Construction at Arbab Niaz Stadium began in 2018 under the then-ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. Officials had promised completion in two years, but delays pushed back the timeline.
A sports department official, speaking anonymously, admitted unnecessary delays deprived the province of cricket. Lack of funds and the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to setbacks. The initial cost estimate of Rs 1.37 billion has now surged to Rs 3 billion, with work still unfinished.
The province’s weak economy led to funding shortages, further stalling construction. Officials halted work during the pandemic, stopping both labor and financial support.
Completion Timeline
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s government is concerned about the slow progress. Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Syed Fakhar Jahan recently reviewed the project. He stated that 80% of the work is complete. The remaining tasks are moving quickly.
Jahan announced that construction would be finished by February 15. Once completed, the stadium will be ready for PSL matches. The government aims to host games in Peshawar next year.
A government official supervising the project confirmed that civil work and painting are ongoing. Electrical installations will follow.
Bringing Cricket Back to Peshawar
Peshawar last hosted an international one-day match in 2006, when Pakistan defeated India. Since then, international teams have avoided the city due to security and infrastructure concerns.
Local cricket fans have long demanded the return of international matches. Peshawar resident Shabbir Hussain recalled the vibrant cricket scene before 2006. He said visiting teams enjoyed the city’s hospitality, food, and culture.
Former cricketer Muhammad Akram, overseeing the Zalmi League at the stadium, confirmed that the facility is being built to international standards. New hostels are under construction alongside the stadium.
Once completed, the stadium will accommodate over 30,000 spectators. Seats have already been installed. Akram remains hopeful that Peshawar will host international matches soon, pending security clearance.
He emphasized that the stadium meets ICC standards. If funding continues without interruption, construction will finish on schedule.
