No immediate plans for cricket stadium in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa has said that there are currently no plans to build a cricket stadium in Islamabad.

He stated that while the construction of a cricket stadium is not on the immediate agenda, the city will see the development of 25 cricket grounds and 25 football grounds.

Randhawa added that the CDA has held meetings with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the matter. “After expert consultations, a suitable location for a cricket stadium in Islamabad will be determined. The final decision on the site will rest with the experts,” he noted.

Randhawa revealed that a meeting was held with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to discuss the possibility of a new stadium in Islamabad. However, he emphasized that any decision regarding the location and construction would be based on the recommendation of technical experts. The experts will be responsible for selecting a suitable site for the stadium’s construction.

The CDA Chairman also addressed the current state of cricket grounds in the city, describing them as being in a poor condition. He stressed the need to upgrade the pitches of existing grounds to meet international standards. This move is aimed at providing a better playing environment for local cricketers.

Randhawa also shared details about other sports development projects, stating, “We have plans to build grounds for various sports in Islamabad.” He added that former cricketer Rashid Latif is assisting the authority in upgrading the grounds at F-9 Park.

Chairman Randhawa’s statement puts an end to the speculation about a new stadium in F-9 Park. The focus has now shifted to the development of numerous smaller sports grounds and the improvement of existing facilities. The collaboration with cricket experts and the PCB indicates a commitment to enhancing the city’s sports landscape, even without a major stadium project at this time.