After a 19-year hiatus, international cricket is returning to Peshawar’s historic Arbab Niaz Stadium, thanks to its recent renovation and persistent efforts from local stakeholders. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that Peshawar will host two Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches, signaling the revival of major cricket events in the city after nearly two decades. The last international match played at the stadium was between Pakistan and India in 2006.
The two PSL matches will be played during daytime due to the lack of floodlights at the venue. This milestone was made possible by the concerted efforts of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government and Peshawar Zalmi, who lobbied for the return of top-tier cricket to the city.
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Adding to the excitement, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy will arrive in Peshawar on Thursday and be displayed at the Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium, further showcasing the city’s growing importance in Pakistan’s cricketing landscape.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Syed Fakhar Jahan, recently visited the stadium and confirmed that construction would be completed by February 15. He assured that the provincial government is committed to hosting PSL matches in the city and has prioritized the timely completion of the project.
The minister was joined by Peshawar Zalmi’s Director and former Test cricketer Mohammad Akram, Director General of Sports Abdul Nasir, and other key officials. During the visit, Jahan emphasized that the construction would be conducted in double shifts to meet the mid-February deadline, adding that the provincial government would not face funding issues in completing the stadium.
Jahan also highlighted that security in K-P is no longer a concern, citing the successful hosting of various national events, including a recently concluded marathon that saw participation from athletes across the country.
