PCB decides to hold PSL matches at AJK’s Muzaffarabad stadium
In a landmark announcement for cricket in the northern region, PCB decides to hold PSL matches at AJK’s Muzaffarabad stadium, marking the first time Pakistan Super League fixtures will be hosted in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The decision was confirmed by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the PSL roadshow held at London’s historic Lord’s Cricket Ground, where he outlined the board’s plans to elevate Muzaffarabad’s cricketing infrastructure to international standards.
Naqvi said that the PCB has already initiated steps to prepare the Muzaffarabad stadium for PSL-level events. He emphasized that the board is committed to upgrading the venue with top-tier facilities to ensure it meets the same benchmarks as Pakistan’s leading cricketing centers. “We are going to develop the Muzaffarabad cricket stadium in the best possible way,” he said, calling the move a strategic step toward expanding cricket’s footprint in the region.
The PCB chairman added that Muzaffarabad already has essential amenities required for hosting foreign athletes, including modern accommodation options. He highlighted the availability of high-quality five-star hotels, noting that the city is well-equipped to host teams and officials without logistical challenges. Naqvi also shared that the initiative goes beyond PSL matches. “Along with PSL fixtures, other international matches will also be hosted in Azad Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, signaling a broader vision to make the region a regular cricket destination.
While the announcement has generated excitement among fans and local authorities, Naqvi did not clarify how many PSL matches will be played in Muzaffarabad. The detailed schedule is expected to be finalized closer to the tournament as the board evaluates logistical requirements and infrastructure readiness.
The decision comes at a historic time for the PSL, which is set for further expansion ahead of its next edition. Launched in 2016 with five franchises, the league has grown rapidly over the years. The upcoming 11th edition will mark the addition of two new teams, expanding the total number of franchises to eight. This expansion represents the first major structural change to the tournament in seven years, reflecting the league’s increasing popularity and its position as one of the fastest-growing T20 competitions in the world.
Cricket enthusiasts and officials in AJK have welcomed the PCB’s announcement, calling it a transformative opportunity for the region. Muzaffarabad, known for its scenic valleys and vibrant cricket culture, has long been considered a promising venue for professional cricket. Hosting PSL and future international matches is expected to inspire young aspiring cricketers, boost local sports infrastructure, and bring significant tourism and economic benefits.
Analysts believe that expanding PSL venues to new regions could help further grow the league’s fan base and create new opportunities for cricketing talent outside traditional hubs like Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan. The PCB’s move aligns with its broader strategy to make cricket more accessible across Pakistan while introducing fresh experiences for players and supporters alike.
With infrastructure development now underway, the cricketing community eagerly awaits updates from the PCB regarding timelines, match schedules, and the scale of upgrades planned for the Muzaffarabad stadium. For now, the decision stands as a milestone for cricket in AJK and a promising chapter in the continued evolution of the Pakistan Super League.
