For years, cricket lovers in Islamabad have been daydreaming of seeing their city host top-tier international matches. Now, that dream is finally moving from drawing boards to reality.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in collaboration with the Capital Development Authority, has taken a decisive step by entrusting National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) with the design and supervision of Islamabad’s first-ever international standard cricket stadium in the scenic F-9 Park.
The announcement was made by NESPAK Managing Director Muhammad Zargham Eshaq Khan, who called it a landmark moment for Pakistan’s sports infrastructure.
The project, awarded on a government-to-government basis, will feature state-of-the-art facilities, spacious stands, advanced lighting systems, modern dressing rooms, and broadcast-ready technology — all in line with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) requirements.
A Carefully Planned Start
A technical team from NESPAK, including the project manager, lead architect, and structural engineer, has already conducted an initial site survey. Their task is the designing of not just a stadium, but a venue that can blend Islamabad’s natural beauty with sporting amenities.
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Adding cricketing wisdom to the process, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has been appointed as an expert consultant by the PCB. His role will be to ensure the venue is built to deliver the same atmosphere and quality as the world’s leading cricket grounds.
PCB Chairman and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi will personally oversee the project — a clear sign of the government’s commitment to putting Islamabad firmly on the international cricket map.
A Boost for the Capital’s Sports Culture
After the completion, the stadium is going to host Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches, Test series, and ICC events. Beyond cricket, it could serve as a hub for community events, tourism and economic activity.
For local fans, it means they will no longer have to travel to various cities such as Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi to witness world-class cricket.
“This is more than just a stadium,” one PCB official said. “It’s about giving Islamabad a sporting identity of its own.”