Cricket infrastructure in Sindh is receiving a huge boost as Hyderabad is set to be a new host location in Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Niaz Stadium is set to undergo priority renovation and upgrades. The development comes after confirmation that FKS has acquired a PSL franchise which will be based on Hyderabad, thus making it the second PSL city in Sindh after Karachi and it is an important step in the expansion of the league.
According to officials, FKS bought the Hyderabad franchise at Rs. 175 crore in the PSL team auction in Islamabad. The addition of Hyderabad in the PSL map has immediately redirected attention towards the renovation of the Niaz Stadium as it fits in the bill of hosting a high-profile T20 tournament.
Proposed improvements are planned in terms of spectator facilities, player amenities, broadcasting facilities and general match-day operations to ensure the venue meets PSL standards.
Stakeholders are of the view that the renovation of Niaz Stadium will not only give a better experience to the fans but also boost Hyderabad’s capacity to host major national and international cricketing events in the future.
The move is also being seen as a long-awaited return of top-tier cricket to a city with deep historical roots in the sport as well as a passionate fan base.
Speaking about the identity of the franchise, Fawad Sarwar of FKS Group confirmed that the team name has already been finalised but it would be revealed at a later stage.
He went on to say that the decision on the full branding including the official team name and visual identity will be announced in an appropriate ceremony presumably to be coordinated with PSL officials and other key stakeholders.
The introduction of Hyderabad is one of the PSL’s wider plans to increase its geographical footprint and bond with fans through all of Pakistan.
By introducing the league to new cities, the PSL hopes to foster cricket development at the grassroots level as well as benefit the local economy through sports-related activity.
In a parallel development, infrastructure upgrades will also be taking place in Punjab. Jinnah Stadium in Sialkot will be awarded a major facelift.
The Sialkot team was bought by OZ Developers in a bidding process with a winning bid amount of Rs. 185 crore which superseded the Rs. 170 crore reserve price, another indication of the rising commercial interest as the league continues to expand.
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