The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced an ambitious plan to upgrade the National Stadium Karachi into a world-class cricket facility, with an estimated investment of Rs4 billion.
The second phase of the project will begin in June. The stadium’s new look is expected to be unveiled by December, while full completion is targeted for January next year.
Redevelopment plan includes
The redevelopment plan includes the demolition of existing enclosures and corporate boxes on both sides of the stadium.
In their place, new, modern enclosures will be constructed within six months, designed to bring spectators closer to the action and significantly improve match visibility.
Comfortable seating and upgraded restroom facilities will also be installed to enhance the overall fan experience.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasised the vision of equipping the stadium with modern amenities. As part of the redesign, iron fences will be removed and replaced with trenches between the enclosures and the outfield to ensure unobstructed views, addressing long-standing visibility issues.
The stadium’s ongoing upgrades are already visible. Last year, a four-storey building was constructed at the University End during preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy. This facility now houses dressing rooms and VVIP boxes.
Karachi is scheduled to host six PSL games
The stadium’s roof is currently being dismantled ahead of the upcoming Pakistan Super League matches. Karachi is scheduled to host six PSL games, all of which will be played in the evening, minimising the impact of the temporary absence of the roof on spectators.
The modernisation of the National Stadium Karachi marks another significant step by the PCB in upgrading Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure to international standards.
The stadium now features a five-storey building equipped with modern facilities. The ground floor includes ICC anti-corruption and anti-doping units, physiotherapy rooms, and match officials’ rooms, while dressing rooms on the second floor are nearing completion.
A total of 24 hospitality boxes are being developed on the third and fourth floors, with a combined capacity of around 1,000 spectators. The chairman’s box and administrative block on the fifth floor are also in their final stages.
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