![]() The PCB should either scrap the idea of Islamabad for good or concentrate on Rawalpindi. If the franchise outfit and the PCB want to stage future PSL matches in Rawalpindi, upgrading is vital. If Islamabad is not an option then a plan to upgrade facilities at Rawalpindi will be the need of the hour.Īt the moment, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is also the home ground for Islamabad United. “Islamabad does not have a big population and doesn’t need a big stadium which will become a white elephant.”īeing also an accountant by profession, Mani will only go ahead with such a project if it is profitable. As a result, the PCB will have to work closely with environmentalists to make this happen.Įhsan Mani, also an environmentalist himself has been sceptical on the viability of a stadium in Islamabad. With this federal territory being a green belt area, a suitable location will need to be found. Perhaps the franchise owner Leonine Global Sports could also invest in such a project. The stadium can also be the new home ground for Islamabad United. Consequently, the city will welcome the sport with the true gentleman’s spirit. The capital already plays host to local and global dignitaries and officials. It is important for the PCB to find investment and have a sustainability plan in place. Probably now is the time to revisit this again. ![]() Their have been many talks about building a stadium in Islamabad. Thus the PCB should finalise a location and hunt for a good architect. These events include World T20, Asia Cup, Cricket World Cup and the Champions Trophy.Ī ground in Lahore makes sense, as it is a relatively safe city. Looking ahead to the future, a new ground in Lahore will go a long way in bidding to host major international tournaments. Therefore it is an inconvenience for shoppers and traders travelling to this area, whenever there is a match. Routes leading to close by shopping bazaars such as Liberty Market are not accessible for security reasons. Plus as seen during the PSL matches, the iconic Gadaffi Stadium feels old and is a traffic hindrance due to its location. If any government gives the green light, it is ideal for international players as they will only need to travel a short distance to the stadium.Īn alternative venue gives the PCB more choice when it comes to scheduling. To facilitate security concerns, constructing a five-star hotel near the airport also came under discussion. Shahbaz began planning the ground nearby to Allama Iqbal International Airport. Cricket remains popular as ever in the historical city.įormer Chief Minister of Punjab, Shahbaz Sharif did ponder over building a new state of the art stadium in this vibrant city. Lahore is a major tourist destination of Pakistan. Taking a leaf of runner, Ziyad Rahim, this ground can definitely act as a tourism card. Having adequate facilities will ensure more talents like Junaid Khan going onto play for the national team. This can be part of a regeneration programme for this green city. “This ground can catch the eye of the outside world but investment is needed.”įrom a players safety perspective, investors will also need to think about building a 5-star hotel nearby. I have travelled all around the world and I’m pleased to see such a venue in our country.”Īn official from the Abbottabad Cricket Association spoke about the ground pleading its case: I really feel proud that we have such stadiums in Pakistan. “It’s probably the most beautiful stadium in the world. Several training camps have been set up here on a regular basis.ĭescribing it as a stunning ground, former Pakistan legend, Wasim Akram says: Players and officials are familiar with the ground. With tourism high on the agenda of Imran Khan, PCB should seize the opportunity and convert this ground into a major tourist hub. However, the ground needs an upgrade and floodlights to meet international standards. The cool temperatures of Abbottabad are perfect for a day of cricket. The stadium is visually similar to the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Ground in Dharamsala, India.
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