Imran Khan Cricket Stadium named for Peshawar’s Arbab Niaz Stadium against opposition.
Officially known as Imran Khan Cricket Stadium, the historic Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium in Peshawar has been marked by a fresh nameplate. Many sectors have quite debated and resisted this decision.
Named after Arbab Niaz Muhammad, a former federal sports minister, the stadium was initially erected in 1984 and is in the process of significant remodelment.
Political parties, the family of Arbab Niaz, and notable individuals have all pushed back on the renaming.
Reports have it that even Imran Khan opposed the change of name, the former Prime Minister and cricket legend. Additionally slamming the ruling as unsuitable, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor did so.
Notwithstanding the protests, the stadium’s continuous improvement includes the new nameplate being mounted.
The venue has notably not held an overseas game from a Pakistan vs. vs. India second oneday international played on 6 February 2006. The stadium is not likely to be used for Pakistan Super League (PSL) games this year owing to ongoing safety issues.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation arrived at the stadium lately to assess its readiness and security for PSL games and possible future international matches.
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