ISLAMABAD: The cricket boards of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to build an international cricket stadium in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, a joint statement from both sides said, with the partnership aimed at strengthening cricket infrastructure in the Kingdom.
The agreement was signed by Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Mohammad Al Saud, chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister. Naqvi arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday to hold talks with Saudi Arabia’s leadership on security, counter-narcotics and institutional cooperation, Pakistani state media said.
As per the agreement, both parties will work together on infrastructure development, technical expertise, venue planning and operational standards to deliver a modern cricket venue that meets the requirements of international competition, the joint statement said.
“Today’s partnership is not only about developing an international cricket stadium in Jeddah; it is about building a long-term future for cricket in Saudi Arabia through shared ambition, trusted partnerships and sustainable investment,” Al Saudi was quoted as saying in the joint statement.
The stadium is expected to play a key role in enabling Saudi Arabia to host international cricket matches and major events, while supporting sports investment, sports tourism and community engagement in line with Vision 2030.
“The partnership also includes cooperation in developing integrated venue infrastructure, including playing surfaces, broadcast and media facilities, hospitality areas, training facilities, and spectator services, creating a comprehensive environment for players, officials, fans, and commercial stakeholders,” the statement added.
The agreement also provides a framework for broader collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in developing cricket competitions, technical and development programs, and the exchange of expertise. This would contribute to the sustainable growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia and create new opportunities for future generations, the statement added.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board is honored to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s exciting cricket journey,” Naqvi said. “Together, we are creating a partnership that will strengthen the game, connect our cricketing communities and leave a lasting legacy.”
Saudi Arabia has seen a rise in cricket’s popularity in the Kingdom with the establishment of the SACF in 2020. The board has since then lined up a series of programs to promote the sport at home and prepare national teams to compete with the world’s best in the future.
Cricket was introduced to the Kingdom in the early 1960s by expatriates from Pakistan and India, after which local clubs began to take shape in the country. The Kingdom became an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council in 2003 and was promoted to associate membership in 2016.
