3 decades of cricket history amid new stadium talks
The news about a new cricket stadium in Islamabad are circulating on social media for the past few days. According to reports, CDA is set to upgrade the existing cricket ground in F-9 Park, Islamabad. While the debate about these speculations are still a hot topic, let us dwell a little into the history and significance of the only cricket hub in Rawalpindi, Islamabad for around 33 years now, that has not only nurtured local talent but hosted numerous international matches as well.
Perched on the edge of Rawalpindi, just 3 miles away from Islamabad, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium was a replacement of the Pindi Club Ground, becoming the country’s 14th test ground. The stadium with an initial capacity of 15,000, was built in 1992 and officially inaugurated as an international stadium in 1998. During these 33 years, this stadium has hosted numerous international matches and has become a primary venue for cricket in Pakistan.
History and legacy
The stadium was established in preparations for the 1996 cricket World Cup and was funded by the Punjab Government. Major renovations were held in 1996 and it was finally inaugurated as international cricket stadium in the year 1998. The first test match was played between Pakistan and Zimbabwe in 1993 whereas the first ODI was played between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in 1992.
Some of the most iconic matches held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium include the 1st ODI between Pakistan and India in 2004 which was played after a gap of 15 years between both nations. Pakistan fell short by 5 runs and India resultantly won the match. The Pakistan vs Australia test match in 2014 was also a historic one as it was Pakistan’s first test match on home soil after a gap of almost 6 years. However, Pakistan fell short by just 39 runs and Australia won the match. The stadium has also been a regular venue for the Pakistan Super League and even hosted the opening ceremony of its 10th edition and some matches of the Champions Trophy 2025.
Records at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Pakistan has played a total of 45 matches here and won 25, lost 14, 4 were drawn and 2 had no result. The highest total recorded at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Test was 657/10 by England against Pakistan whereas the lowest is 112/10, also by England against Pakistan. In ODI, the highest total has been 337/3 by Pakistan against New Zeeland whereas the lowest is 104 by Zimbabwe against Sri Lanka. The stadium has also been the home ground and debut venue for the world’s fastest bowler, Shoaib Akhtar. In 2004, ODI series, Sachin Tendulkar scored a magnificent 141 against Pakistan.
A beautiful blend of vibrant cricket fans and State-of-the-Art Facilities
Spread over an area of 25 acres, the stadium has four main stands, high quality floodlights, large scoreboards and a topnotch drainage system. Other facilities include practice pitch, indoor nets, gymnasium, VIP lounges, media boxes etc. Its location makes it even more interesting for fans, with just 20 minutes away from Islamabad and is located near the metro station. Other than its rich history and beautiful views, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is also known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate cricket fans. The stadium is widely known for producing flat wickets that provide even bounce, which allows batsmen to dominate. The stadium has also undergone several renovations and up gradations throughout the years, including the recent renovations consisting of up gradation of main pavilion, media boxes, new seating for the Champions Trophy 2025. It also hosted 3 ODI matches in 1996 Cricket World Cup.
Rawalpindi cricket Stadium is significant not only for its rich cricket history but also for its contribution to sports in Pakistan.
