The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is in discussions with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation to build a cricket stadium in Jeddah. The PCB’s Governing Council has approved the proposal.
According to PCB sources, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister, is leading the negotiations with Saudi officials. An expression of interest for the stadium has already been submitted.
“The PCB aims to promote cricket in Saudi Arabia and host some Pakistan Super League matches there. However, a final agreement is still pending for construction to begin,” the source mentioned.
Discussions are ongoing to identify a suitable site for the stadium, focusing on seating capacity, floodlights, and other features that will allow high-profile matches, including Pakistan Super League games.
The interest in this project is partly due to Saudi Arabia’s growing enthusiasm for cricket. The country has a significant South Asian population, which could elevate interest in the sport.
“While talks are at an early stage, the PCB is supportive of collaborating with the Saudi body, reflecting the strong relations between the two nations. The PCB recognizes the large Pakistani expatriate community in the kingdom,” the source added.
The UAE has been the main hub for cricket in the Middle East, hosting bilateral series, ICC events, and various franchise leagues, including its own T20 league, the ILT20.
The UAE boasts three Test venues—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah—that have hosted Pakistan’s matches, particularly during periods of security concerns in Pakistan. They also organized the 2021 T20 World Cup, which was initially set to take place in India, along with sections of the IPL in 2020 and 2021.