Leading Pakistani cricket figures have welcomed Saudi Arabia’s plans to build an international-standard cricket stadium in Jeddah, describing the project as a significant step towards strengthening the sport’s presence in the Kingdom and creating new opportunities for future generations of players.
The backing from several former Pakistan internationals follows the strategic partnership between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) to develop the venue as part of a wider effort to expand cricket infrastructure, technical expertise and operational capabilities in Saudi Arabia.
As previously reported by cricexec, the agreement extends beyond the construction of a single stadium, with both organisations committing to broader collaboration aimed at supporting cricket’s long-term development in the Kingdom and enhancing its ability to stage international matches as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions.
Players see long-term boost for Saudi cricket
Former Pakistan Captain Shahid Afridi told Arab News he believes the investment reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to sport.
“I think it’s a fantastic initiative. Saudi Arabia has made great progress in developing sports and investing in cricket is another exciting step,” Afridi said.
He believes the project could create lasting benefits for the game across the region.
“There is already a strong passion for cricket in the Kingdom and having an international stadium will help inspire young players, develop local talent, and contribute to the growth of cricket in the region,” he added.
Afridi also reflected on the stadium’s future.
“It would be a privilege to play at the stadium once it is completed. I hope to play there one day and be a part of this exciting new chapter for cricket in Saudi Arabia,” he said.
Focus on developing future talent
The project is also being viewed as an important platform for nurturing emerging players as Saudi Arabia continues to expand its domestic cricket ecosystem.
Pakistan Cricketer Imran Khan Sr. told Arab News the partnership between the two cricket boards could provide a strong foundation for long-term player development.
“The construction of a cricket stadium in Jeddah under a memorandum of understanding between the Pakistani and Saudi cricket bodies is a great initiative for cricketers in Saudi Arabia,” Imran Khan Sr. said.
“This will promote young talent and the game of cricket itself,” he added.
Cricket’s role beyond the field
Beyond its sporting impact, the collaboration has also been welcomed as an opportunity to strengthen international relationships through cricket.
Former Pakistan Bowler and Coach Jalal Uddin told Arab News the partnership represents an important example of sport bringing countries closer together.
“It’s a very good initiative by the Saudi government and the PCB in collaborating to build this stadium,” Jalal Uddin said.
“Now the word is sports diplomacy and this stadium will help them to make sports diplomacy, especially in cricket,” he added.
The long-term ambitions behind the partnership were also outlined by Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation Chairman Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud, who said the project is intended to deliver lasting benefits for the sport.
“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,” Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud said in a joint statement on July 1.
Cricket has grown steadily in Saudi Arabia in recent years, supported by expatriate communities and expanding grassroots initiatives. The new partnership between the PCB and SACF represents another significant step in those ambitions, combining infrastructure investment with technical collaboration to help position the Kingdom as a future host of international cricket.
