The Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and the Pakistan Cricket Board are in negotiations to construct a stadium in Jeddah; the PCB’s Governing Board has already approved the plan. An expression of interest for the stadium’s development has already been lodged, according to PCB sources, and chairman Mohsin Naqvi is spearheading talks with Saudi cricket officials.
“The PCB wants to promote cricket in the Saudi Kingdom and also hold some Pakistan Super League matches there, but a final document is yet to be signed for starting work on the new stadium,” the source told PTI.
He continued by saying that talks are in progress to find an appropriate location for the stadium, which will have floodlights and enough seats for elite games, including the possibility of hosting PSL games.
The oil-rich kingdom has recently demonstrated a growing interest in promoting cricket and has even looked into the potential of starting its own T20 league, the source continued, adding that Saudi cricket officials had approached the PCB about the concept.
“Talks are in the initial stages, but PCB has made it clear it is on board with the Saudi body because of the brotherly ties between the two countries,” the source added.
“The PCB has shown interest because of the presence of a large Pakistani and other South Asian expatriate community in the kingdom,” the source added.
In addition to holding its own International League T20, the United Arab Emirates has been the main hub for international cricket in the Middle East thus far. It frequently hosts Tests, international matches, Asia Cup competitions, the Indian Premier League, and even ICC Cricket World Cup events.
Between 2010 and 2019, Pakistan’s home Tests and other international matches were frequently held in the UAE, which has three recognized Test locations: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Due to security concerns, foreign players were hesitant to travel to Pakistan when the PSL was introduced in Dubai in 2016.
