PCB plans to explore cricket stadium project in Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a plan to build a cricket stadium in Saudi Arabia, with the possibility that the venue could host Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in the future.

The board wants to help expand cricket in Saudi Arabia, where a sizeable community of Pakistanis and other Asian expatriates follows the sport closely. The Saudi government is promoting sports activities in the country and is pursuing multiple initiatives in that area.

The PCB has formally conveyed its interest in developing a cricket stadium in Jeddah. The matter was discussed in a recent Board of Governors meeting, where approval was given to examine the opportunity in partnership with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation.

Project under review

The proposed project remains at an early stage. Various locations in Saudi Arabia are currently being assessed to identify a suitable site for the stadium.

If talks with the relevant local authorities move forward successfully, a formal agreement would be signed before construction begins. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is known for making decisions quickly, and if the process continues at the same pace, the stadium could be completed within a year of the contract being signed.

Officials are said to be envisioning a venue with floodlights and enough seating capacity for spectators. In the longer term, the stadium could be used for PSL fixtures as well as other Pakistan cricket matches in Jeddah.

Potential role for PSL and Pakistan matches

The plan is being viewed as a way to bring live cricket to fans in Saudi Arabia while also creating opportunities for younger players to improve their game and progress in the sport.

If the project advances, it would mark a significant step in taking Pakistan’s premier T20 competition beyond the country’s borders. The proposed venue could eventually serve as a platform for PSL matches and other fixtures involving Pakistan cricket.

No timeline for a final agreement was given, beyond the indication that construction could take around a year after a contract is signed. For now, the initiative remains in the exploratory phase, with venue options under review and coordination taking place with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation.