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[PICTURES] Is Arbab Niaz Stadium Ready to Host PSL Season 10 Matches?

BouncerGuy

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There is some activity going on in Arbab Niaz Stadium. Peshawar Zalmi might be trying to bring PSL 10 games here. Can we witness cricket coming back in Peshawar???


 
The work on this Stadium has been stagnant since the last two years. The kpk government has not shown much interest or investment into getting the stadium ready on a war footing for international cricket.
 
Looks a much better stadium compared to the older stadiums in Pakistan. Would be glad to see games there.
 
Looks nice the stadium but guess light towers missing? or is it the Dubai style ring of fire concept?
 
Savak said:
The work on this Stadium has been stagnant since the last two years. The kpk government has not shown much interest or investment into getting the stadium ready on a war footing for international cricket.
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PCB spent about 12 Billion for 3 Stadiums renovation, KPK also falls in Pakistan. Good on KPK government that they spent money on state of the art stadium and its almost complete but PCB could have financially supported the project and it would be ready by now
 
MenInG said:
Looks nice the stadium but guess light towers missing? or is it the Dubai style ring of fire concept?
Click to expand...
Ring of Fire is planned like Dubai Int. Probably not happening due to lack of funds from KPK government. But lack of PCB interest in project is baffling. it seems like PCB only cares about stadiums in Punjab and willing to spend their own money on them but somehow they cant do it if its in KPK
 
Very difficult to host games , already too much expenditure on security and the franchises want cost cutting
 
All these grounds give vibes of the late 70s.

Zero architectural work going into them and planning.

Doubt it's got the ring of fire concept looking at the old school 70s design.
 
Peshawar Zalmi demands PSL 10 matches in Peshawar

Chairman of Peshawar Zalmi, Javed Afridi, has stated that the citizens of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Peshawar deserve the opportunity to see their favorite team, Peshawar Zalmi, play on their home ground.

Starting January 1st, Peshawar Zalmi will conduct talent trials at Arbab Niaz Stadium to scout new cricketing talent.

Afridi emphasized that hosting Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in Peshawar is not only a long-standing demand of Peshawar Zalmi but also a right for the fans of the region. He pointed out that the franchise continues to actively engage in sports activities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and reiterated the call for future PSL matches to be held in Peshawar so that local cricket enthusiasts can enjoy watching Peshawar Zalmi in action.

Yesterday, Provincial Minister Syed Fakhar Jehan, along with Peshawar Zalmi's Director of Cricket, Mohammad Akram, visited Arbab Niaz Stadium.

During the visit, the Provincial Minister of Sports announced that civil work on the stadium would be conducted in double shifts to ensure the remaining work is completed by February, allowing PSL matches to take place in Peshawar next year. He assured that funding would not be a barrier to the stadium's completion and expressed confidence that all construction would be finished on schedule.

Addressing security concerns, the Provincial Minister confirmed that there were no security issues in the province, citing successful national-level events, including a recent marathon race that attracted participants from across the country. He also mentioned that a national polo event is scheduled for January. Additionally, he emphasized the commitment to promoting cricket in the region by collaborating with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to enhance local facilities. He assured full cooperation from his team in helping Peshawar Zalmi promote cricket in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

On the same occasion, Mohammad Akram, Peshawar Zalmi's Director of Cricket, informed the media that trials for the Pakistan Super League will begin at Arbab Niaz Stadium on January 1st, with players from all over Pakistan participating. He praised the upgrades made to the stadium, noting that it had been beautified beyond expectations, and expressed hope that PSL matches would be held in Peshawar next year. Akram also reaffirmed Peshawar Zalmi's commitment to developing sports in the province, highlighting the crucial role Khyber Pakhtunkhwa players have played in Pakistan cricket. He reiterated that the people of the province have the right to watch PSL matches live.

Following the visit, the Provincial Minister, Mohammad Akram, and other dignitaries, along with media representatives, toured the stadium grounds and distributed shirts to the players.
 
Pekhawar should get games, the security concerns are from people that have never gone into kpk. The games would all also be sold out and the team consists of so many pashtun, it would be like a home coming for them to finally play in Pekhawar.
 
Wasim Ghulam said:
PCB spent about 12 Billion for 3 Stadiums renovation, KPK also falls in Pakistan. Good on KPK government that they spent money on state of the art stadium and its almost complete but PCB could have financially supported the project and it would be ready by now
Click to expand...

PCB argument was that the Arbab Niaz Stadium is owned by the kpk government. They had been requesting the kpk government to hand over the stadium rights to the PCB but the provincial government refused. They can't do anything for the stadium without the local government approval and go ahead.
 
This whole thing has been the case for the last couple of years. Make some noise for KPK GAWADAR etc and in the end, it is just PINDI LAHORE AND KARACHI.

Let's see what different is gonna happen this time. Not so confident about this whole drama.
 
PSL already Struggle to already get good international players and will struggle more if they want to play in KPK.

If Javed Afridi thinks the people of KPK "has the right" to see their cricketers play live then I suppose we can say that the rest of Pakistan "has the right" to see many elements of KPK society to come into the 21st century.
 
Why not take the PSL to places like Faislabad, Gujranwalla, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad for now where the security situation is safer and share the gate receipts 50-50 with the franchises for now? I guarantee that the stadiums will be sold out in these small cities and you will be able to get the funds to bring these stadiums up to international standards
 
The stadium is a complete farce.

It’s almost impossible to watch any live action from the stands on the ground floor — why? It’s a pillars galore!

Pillars, pillars, everywhere! In front of your eyes, right besides you, you just CANNOT watch cricket when sitting in the lower floor stands.

They have wasted so much money on it with zero planning and zero common sense. No idea what kind of an incompetent firm they hired to design the stadium.

And it’s still not ready.
 
Savak said:
The work on this Stadium has been stagnant since the last two years. The kpk government has not shown much interest or investment into getting the stadium ready on a war footing for international cricket.
Click to expand...

The security clearance for int'l cricket is an issue hence the delay. The issue with this stadium is that it's in the heart of the city & in a very crowded space unlike Qaddafi stadium or National stadium Karachi.

The ideal thing to do was to make a new stadium outside the city center but they didn't do that & now have to suffer the consequences. Maybe they can host a PSL game or two but int'l cricket isn't happening there
 
Peshawar Zalmi Director of Cricketing Affairs, Mohammad Akram, during a media interaction at Arbab Niaz Stadium, Peshawar:

"The renovation is still about 20-25% incomplete. With three months remaining, I believe that if we put in the effort, this stadium can be fully ready."

"An activity focused on game development has just begun. Alongside this, 100 pitches are also being prepared to support cricket in the region."

"This is the region that feeds Pakistan cricket, both domestically and internationally. The immense talent and passion here are clearly visible."

"What this region needs now is for its people to see their heroes play in front of them. This ground should come alive again."
"The last international match here was in 2006. InshaAllah, I am confident that by 2025, cricket will return to this ground. These young fans will see their superstars playing here and draw inspiration from them."
 
Has to be the most ugly stadium ever. They couldnt even build a proper roof with symmetry. Than look at those pillars lmao. THe color of the seats are another joke.

A part of the stadium is touching a mohalla, so not really a safe place for cricket still.
 
Flat_Track_Bully said:
Just realised it doesn't have floodlights :ROFLMAO:

Look at the surroundings too
View attachment 149183

Not safe at all. PSL games whatever, but we can't risks with internationals.
Click to expand...
LMAO, I'd like to see fans get inside this stadium during a match. Security forces will likely cordon off all surrounding areas. It will be an absolute clusterf**k of an experience for fans when they finally start hosting PSL matches here. The worst part is that you will probably have to demolish nearby buildings/take over area if you even want to install floodlights here.
 
RedwoodOriginal said:
LMAO, I'd like to see fans get inside this stadium during a match. Security forces will likely cordon off all surrounding areas. It will be an absolute clusterf**k of an experience for fans when they finally start hosting PSL matches here. The worst part is that you will probably have to demolish nearby buildings/take over area if you even want to install floodlights here.
Click to expand...

I am assuming there will be a cordon with snipers on rooftops but how will the journey to the stadium be secured. Too many question marks.
 
no surprise this is the only stadium built by PTI govt. lol.

No stadium lights, messed up roofing, pillars blocking view.

This their version of the Dubai stadium LMAO
 
Flat_Track_Bully said:
I am assuming there will be a cordon with snipers on rooftops but how will the journey to the stadium be secured. Too many question marks.
Click to expand...
Like I said, it will be an absolute clusterf**k. The geography of the stadium does not help either. You have to be a really dedicated cricket fan to watch matches live in the stadium in Pakistan. Personally for me, the experience has been ruined by the overbearing security presence. I understand the need for it but our boys have taken it to overkill. And I imagine that security measures will be even stricter for a match in Peshawar than they are in Pindi or Lahore.
 
Major said:
no surprise this is the only stadium built by PTI govt. lol.

No stadium lights, messed up roofing, pillars blocking view.

This their version of the Dubai stadium LMAO
Click to expand...

Stadium lights can be installed. They just have to be a bit creative.

The worst part of this stadium are the FREAKING PILLARS.

They’re everywhere. As a spectator you CANNOT watch the live action if sitting on the lower floor seats because pillars block the view.

I have never ever seen a worse stadium than this anywhere in the world.

Who puts so many thick pillars right besides and in front of eyes of the spectators???

Pillars are everywhere!
 
Hawkeye said:
Stadium lights can be installed. They just have to be a bit creative.

The worst part of this stadium are the FREAKING PILLARS.

They’re everywhere. As a spectator you CANNOT watch the live action if sitting on the lower floor seats because pillars block the view.

I have never ever seen a worse stadium than this anywhere in the world.

Who puts pillars in front of eyes of the spectators???
Click to expand...
Man whats with the roof, why couldnt they just make it a symmetry.

Like this whole stadium accurately does represent Peshawar :P
 
Major said:
Man whats with the roof, why couldnt they just make it a symmetry.

Like this whole stadium accurately does represent Peshawar :p
Click to expand...

Honestly this is a work of absolute incompetence.

A half decent designer could have done a much better job but I have no idea who went with this design and who approved it!!

So much incompetence in one picture.
 
Hawkeye said:
Stadium lights can be installed. They just have to be a bit creative.

The worst part of this stadium are the FREAKING PILLARS.

They’re everywhere. As a spectator you CANNOT watch the live action if sitting on the lower floor seats because pillars block the view.

I have never ever seen a worse stadium than this anywhere in the world.

Who puts so many thick pillars right besides and in front of eyes of the spectators???

Pillars are everywhere!
Click to expand...
I don't know which genius came up with this, but seems like a really lazy job where they built over the pre-existing Arbab Niaz Stadium, which was already pretty decrepit and outdated.
 
RedwoodOriginal said:
I don't know which genius came up with this, but seems like a really lazy job where they built over the pre-existing Arbab Niaz Stadium, which was already pretty decrepit and outdated.
Click to expand...

Yeah I guess they wanted to save cost.

Not always a good idea to just save money, however had they went with a half decent design it would have been in acceptable condition.

Now it’s just abysmal. Half the stadium can’t watch the match because of the pillars.

It being in the middle of a densely populated area is a different issue and not something they can change unless they build a brand new stadium at new location.
 
The money they used to build a two tier stadium could’ve been used to make a much better single tier stadium.

The pillars are a joke.

The roof looks dumb, I’m assuming it’s to protect the fans from the sun, can’t imagine it being too hot in Peshawar.

The location isn’t a problem, just bulldoze all the surrounding buildings and build a 5 star hotel.

It also looks like they’re going to leave a huge gap between the fans and the boundary line. What a shame.
 
YousafTheBeast said:
The money they used to build a two tier stadium could’ve been used to make a much better single tier stadium.

The pillars are a joke.

The roof looks dumb, I’m assuming it’s to protect the fans from the sun, can’t imagine it being too hot in Peshawar.

The location isn’t a problem, just bulldoze all the surrounding buildings and build a 5 star hotel.

It also looks like they’re going to leave a huge gap between the fans and the boundary line. What a shame.
Click to expand...

Truly a joke.

The roof at least doesn’t interfere with the viewing experience.

But the pillars are everywhere.
 
I think Hayatabad is a much more aesthetically pleasing stadium for hosting cricket in Peshawar. It has a lot more simplistic design. I’d much rather have PZ play their matches there for now while they are completing ABNS.
 
Ahmad i said:
I think Hayatabad is a much more aesthetically pleasing stadium for hosting cricket in Peshawar. It has a lot more simplistic design. I’d much rather have PZ play their matches there for now while they are completing ABNS.
Click to expand...
hayatabad barely has any seats. plus its right inside a residential area. Too much nuisance for the people that live there
 
Major said:
hayatabad barely has any seats. plus its right inside a residential area. Too much nuisance for the people that live there
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Peshawar sounds like a nightmare from a urban planning perspective. Have never been there myself tbh.
 
As per media reports:

The KPK government has decided to rename the historic Arbab Niaz Stadium in Peshawar, with plans to dedicate it to the PTI founder, Imran Khan.
 
FearlessRoar said:
As per media reports:

The KPK government has decided to rename the historic Arbab Niaz Stadium in Peshawar, with plans to dedicate it to the PTI founder, Imran Khan.
Click to expand...

Idiotic decision. This will force the PCB, PDM and the establishment to avoid taking any games to Peshawar.
 
Not possible , situation not ideal for PSL atm ,also foreign players may have reservations going there because usually they security clearance from their own sources of cities like RWP LHR KHI MUL
 
PCB confirms exhibition match in Peshawar ahead of PSL 10

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday confirmed that an exhibition cricket match will be played in Peshawar before the commencement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

The cricket board revealed the schedule of the PSL 10 earlier today, revealing that the xi-team event will run from 11 April to 18 May.

While announcing the schedule, the PCB confirmed that Peshawar would host an exhibition match, giving cricket fans in the city a thrilling spectacle.

“Also, the upcoming edition will feature an exhibition match, which will be played on 8 April in Peshawar. The teams of the match will be confirmed in due course,” the PCB stated in a press release.

According to sources, the upcoming match is scheduled to take place at the Arbab Niaz Stadium, a historic venue currently undergoing significant renovation.

The construction team is diligently working to complete the improvements on time, ensuring that the stadium will be fully equipped and ready to host the exhibition match before PSL 10.

This strategic move is part of the PCB’s broader initiative to reintroduce top-tier cricket to Peshawar, aiming to reignite the passion of local fans and draw them back into the thrilling atmosphere of live cricket.

This wouldn’t be the first time PCB has organized an exhibition match before the PSL. Back in 2023, a similar game was held in Quetta, which garnered significant attention and excitement from cricket enthusiasts.

For the unversed, Arbab Niaz Stadium was a prominent venue for international cricket two decades ago. However, due to the political situation in the region, it has not hosted any international matches since 2006.

The last international match held at Arbab Niaz Stadium was an ODI between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

a-sports.tv

PCB confirms exhibition match in Peshawar ahead of PSL 10

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that an exhibition match will be played in Peshawar before the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.
a-sports.tv a-sports.tv
 
In Vince McMahon's word "No Chance" would be foolish to go there, not ideal situation for PSL games there
 
FB_IMG_1741108344806.jpg

One and only Imran Khan in Pakistan, his rivals have not spared Graveyards and loitreen for promotion
 
So no matches here in PSL X also ? 🤔
====

HBL PSL X trophy unveiled in Arabian Sea

• The HBL PSL X trophy is named “The Luminara Trophy”

Karachi, 13 March 2025:

The HBL Pakistan Super League has made history with a spectacular unveiling of its landmark 10th edition trophy, Luminara, in Karachi’s coastal waters. This unprecedented move marks a new milestone in the league’s legacy, symbolising innovation, resilience, brilliance, and the spirit of Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.

A striking masterpiece, Luminara is crafted from a single sheet of solid silver, precisely machined to create its intricate stone settings. Weighing 10 kilograms, the trophy is adorned with 22,850 high-luster zircon stones, reflecting the talented stars, passion, energy, and competitive excellence that define HBL PSL.

The name Luminara signifies illumination, derived from the Latin word ‘luminare’ meaning ‘torch’ and ‘lumens’ meaning ‘light.’ It embodies the league’s decade-long journey of leading the way for cricketing excellence and entertainment.

The unveiling was conducted in the open waters of the Arabian Sea, where a professional diver recovered a treasure chest from the deep sea with the support of the Pakistan Navy and handed over the prized trophy to HBL PSL stakeholders present in Karachi. The narrative signifies a breathtaking display symbolising the league’s depth, evolution, and unwavering spirit. This unique spectacle was witnessed by HBL and PCB officials, franchise representatives, and cricketers further amplifying the excitement leading up to HBL PSL X.

Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi:

“The unveiling of ‘Luminara’ at sea is a testament to the league’s commitment to innovation and excellence. As we celebrate a decade of HBL PSL, this trophy represents the league’s shining legacy and its bright future.”

HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer:

“The HBL Pakistan Super League has always been about pushing boundaries, both on and off the field. Just as the sea holds mysteries and depth, HBL PSL has been a deep reservoir of talent, resilience, and sportsmanship. This unique unveiling represents the depth of passion our players and fans bring to the game.”

The 10th edition of HBL PSL is set to take place in four cities – Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi from 11 April to 18 May. The opening match will be played between the defending champions Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
 
PSL 10: Teams confirmed for exhibition match at Arbab Niaz Stadium

Cricket fever returns to Peshawar as an exhibition match between Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators is set to take place at Arbab Niaz Stadium on April 8, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the revival of top-tier cricket in the region.

This highly anticipated encounter is part of the PCB’s efforts to engage local fans and build excitement ahead of the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL X).

The board aims to generate momentum for the tournament while reaffirming its commitment to expanding cricket across Pakistan.

This is not the first time the PCB has organized an exhibition match before the PSL. In 2023, a similar fixture in Quetta attracted considerable attention, highlighting the enthusiasm for cricket across the country.

The success of that event played a key role in the decision to bring high-profile cricket back to Peshawar.

Javed Afridi, the owner of Peshawar Zalmi, has been a strong advocate for hosting PSL matches in Peshawar. He previously approached PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, urging him to consider Arbab Niaz Stadium as a venue for PSL 10.

His efforts, combined with the PCB’s initiatives, have led to this exhibition match, promising an electrifying spectacle for cricket fans in the region.

It is pertinent to mention that the highly anticipated 10th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to commence on Friday, April 11, with defending champions Islamabad United taking on two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The six-team tournament will feature a total of 34 matches from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will host 13 matches, including two Eliminators and the grand final.

In addition to the main tournament, an exhibition match is scheduled for April 8 in Peshawar. The participating teams for this special fixture will be announced in due course.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host 11 matches, including the first Qualifier on May 13. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will each host five matches.

The event will also feature three double-headers, with two taking place on Saturdays and one on Labour Day (May 1).


www.geosuper.tv

PSL 10: Teams confirmed for exhibition match at Arbab Niaz Stadium

Javed Afridi has been a strong advocate for hosting PSL matches in Peshawar
www.geosuper.tv www.geosuper.tv
 
no.

KPK is still a terrorist zone. TTP kidnapped govt officials from KPK in January.

The stadium has a part of it that is inside a Mohalla making it a big security risk.

They should built a new stadium somewhere else in KPK. It was waste of money to renovate this stadium in to this crap and also still keep it inside a mohalla.
 
HBL PSL X exhibition match update

Lahore, 29 March 2025:

HBL PSL X exhibition match scheduled between Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators at the Arbab Niaz Stadium in Peshawar on 8 April will be rescheduled, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed today. The revised date of the match will be announced in due course.

The PCB remains committed to hosting matches at the international stadium in Peshawar and will continue to provide all support to the provincial government to make the venue operational.

HBL PSL X is set to commence on 11 April, featuring 34 matches across four cities – Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi.
 
The Arbab Niaz stadium is ready for take off!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
jamie smith fan said:
No.
But do u think it is safe to play a high level cricket match there??
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I have family that lives there and I’ve visited often, it’s generally safe. Maybe 10 years ago it would be different but it’s been a while since it’s been safe.
 
PCB is building great stadiums these days. It’s revolutionising the viewing experience for fans.
 
There was this hyped Rafi stadium something. Has it been made.
 
RyanRyan10 said:
I don't think it's great

Lahore one was better which Naqvi had renovated
Click to expand...

So far, the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore looks to be in best shape and also looks future ready for more gradual improvements. Would be really exciting if it gets to again host an ICC tournament final some day.
 
Kianig89 said:
View attachment 151668

One and only Imran Khan in Pakistan, his rivals have not spared Graveyards and loitreen for promotion
Click to expand...
And there are some envious individuals here supporting the country's looters, labeling him a 'clock-thief' and other derogatory terms. Not a single politician in Pakistan comes close to this great man. In the future, children in schools will learn about his struggles and visions, in sha Allah
 
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