Pakistan is known for its rich cricketing history and passionate fans. Since its debut in international cricket, Pakistan has produced some of the world’s best cricketers. The country has hosted countless thrilling matches in various formats, attracting spectators from all over. With 21 stadiums hosting international matches, let’s explore the top five most popular cricket stadiums in Pakistan.
5. Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan
Multan Cricket Stadium, located in the city of Multan, is one of the largest cricket stadiums in Pakistan, with a seating capacity of 35,000. It opened its doors to international cricket in 2001 when Bangladesh played in the Asian Test Championship. Two years later, the stadium hosted its first One Day International (ODI) match between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
The stadium gained fame during India’s tour of Pakistan in 2004 when Virender Sehwag scored an incredible 309 runs in an innings, leading India to a massive victory over Pakistan. This innings earned him the nickname “Sultan of Multan.” Recently, the stadium witnessed a new record when Harry Brook scored 317 runs in an innings, surpassing Sehwag’s long-standing achievement. This makes Multan a landmark in the history of cricket in Pakistan.
4. Arbab Niaz Stadium, Peshawar
Arbab Niaz Stadium, situated in Peshawar, has hosted a total of 21 international matches. The stadium’s journey began with a scheduled ODI between Pakistan and India that was sadly abandoned. Just ten days later, it finally hosted its first official match, where Pakistan faced New Zealand in an ODI.
After a wait of over a decade, the stadium hosted its first Test match in 1995 against Sri Lanka. A memorable moment in the stadium’s history was when Sachin Tendulkar scored his 39th ODI century during his team’s thrilling encounter against Pakistan, which ended in a nail-biting finish.
Also Read: Top 10 Lowest Run in T20 World Cup History
3. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium became the 14th venue in Pakistan to host Test cricket. Its journey began in 1992 with an ODI match against Sri Lanka. The stadium hosted its first Test match against Zimbabwe in 1993, marking the start of its international cricketing legacy.
With a seating capacity of 15,000, Rawalpindi hosted three matches during the 1996 Cricket World Cup, serving as the home ground for South Africa. One of the most memorable performances came in 2004 when Rahul Dravid scored a magnificent 270 runs in the final Test against Pakistan, securing a historic series victory for India.
2. National Stadium, Karachi
The National Stadium in Karachi, located in the country’s largest city, has a seating capacity of 34,238, making it one of the biggest cricket venues in Pakistan. It was inaugurated in 1955 with a Test match between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan.
Over the years, the stadium has witnessed thrilling matches, with Pakistan losing only two Tests at this venue: one against England in 2000 and another against South Africa in 2007. The first ODI at this stadium was played in 1980, where Pakistan faced West Indies. The National Stadium also hosted six World Cup games, showcasing some unforgettable performances. Notably, Viv Richards scored 181 runs against Sri Lanka in the 1987 World Cup, leading West Indies to a record score at that time. The venue also hosted its first T20 International in 2008, featuring Pakistan against Bangladesh.
Also Read: Top 5 Most Famous Cricketers in the World
1. Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Gaddafi Stadium, located in Lahore, is the most iconic cricket stadium in Pakistan and has hosted the most international matches in the country. The stadium first opened for international cricket in 1959 with a Test match between Pakistan and Australia. This match was crucial as it marked the beginning of Test cricket in Pakistan, with Australia emerging victorious.
Gaddafi Stadium hosted its first ODI in 1978 when Pakistan played against England. This venue gained international fame when it hosted the final of the 1996 Cricket World Cup, attended by nearly 60,000 enthusiastic fans. Today, the stadium has a seating capacity of 27,000 and continues to be a central hub for cricket in Pakistan.
Table: Top 5 Most Popular Cricket Stadiums in Pakistan
| Rank | Stadium Name | City | Capacity | First International Match | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Multan Cricket Stadium | Multan | 35,000 | 2001 (Bangladesh vs. Pakistan) | Virender Sehwag’s 309 runs in 2004, Brook’s 317 in 2023 |
| 4 | Arbab Niaz Stadium | Peshawar | 35,000 | 1996 (Pakistan vs. New Zealand) | Sachin Tendulkar’s 39th ODI century |
| 3 | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium | Rawalpindi | 15,000 | 1992 (Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka) | Rahul Dravid’s 270 runs in 2004 |
| 2 | National Stadium | Karachi | 34,238 | 1955 (Pakistan vs. India) | Viv Richards’ 181 runs in 1987 World Cup |
| 1 | Gaddafi Stadium | Lahore | 27,000 | 1959 (Pakistan vs. Australia) | 1996 World Cup Final |
