Pakistan eyes PSL matches in Saudi Arabia as talks begin for Jeddah cricket stadium: Report

Pakistan's partnership with Saudi Arabia could extend to a first dedicated international-standard cricket stadium in Jeddah, which can host Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in future. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is reportedly in advanced discussions with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation over the proposal to build a stadium.

The PCB's governing body has already approved the proposal for a stadium in Saudi Arabia, and an expression of interest for the same has been submitted to the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia discuss cricket stadium in Jeddah

The Saudi federation is yet to sign the approval document, and the site for the stadium has not been decided.

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According to a PCB source, the stadium will include floodlights and an optimum capacity to get clearance for international matches. PCB also plans to host PSL matches there in future.

"The PCB wants to promote cricket in the Saudi Kingdom and also hold some Pakistan Super League matches there, but a final document is yet to be signed for starting work on the new stadium," the PCB source told news agency PTI.

Interestingly, it was the Saudi officials who approached PCB about the possibility of building a cricket stadium in their country, as they also look to launch a 'Grand Slam' style cricket tournament to expand their sporting economy.

"Talks are in the initial stages, but PCB has made it clear it is on board with the Saudi body because of the brotherly ties between the two countries," the source added.

"The PCB has shown interest because of the presence of a large Pakistani and other South Asian expatriate community in the kingdom."

A cricket stadium in Saudi Arabia will also put them in direct competition with neighbours United Arab Emirates (UAE), who already have three international cricket stadiums in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The UAE has consistently hosted international tournaments, including the T20 World Cup 2021 and Champions Trophy 2025.

Indian Premier League and PSL matches have also been hosted in the UAE, which also has its own franchise T20 league called International League T20.