Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has revealed plans to host matches of Pakistan Super League PSL 11 in Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir, marking a potential historic expansion of top-level cricket in Pakistan. The PCB is also considering the venue for international matches in the future, reflecting a long-term vision to take the game beyond traditional host cities.
Speaking about the board’s development strategy, Naqvi said the PCB is actively working to include Muzaffarabad Stadium as a PSL venue. If approved, this would be the first time PSL matches are played in Azad Kashmir, offering local fans a rare opportunity to witness elite cricket at home and bringing national attention to the region.
The announcement follows the recent PSL Roadshow at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, where the PCB confirmed that Abbottabad and Muzaffarabad are both under consideration for major infrastructure upgrades. These discussions are part of the board’s broader plan to improve regional cricket facilities and expand hosting capacity across the country.
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Both stadiums have a strong domestic cricket history but have never hosted PSL or international fixtures. According to the PCB, proposed upgrades include improvements in playing surfaces, spectator facilities, broadcast infrastructure, security arrangements, and player amenities to meet PSL and international standards.
The Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium, also known as Narol Cricket Stadium, holds special importance in the region. It has been a central venue for the Kashmir Premier League since the tournament’s inception and regularly hosts Under-19 and senior inter-district matches. Beyond sports, the stadium has also served the community, including being used as a temporary hospital after major earthquakes, highlighting its social value.
Despite its active role in domestic cricket, Muzaffarabad Stadium is not yet listed among Pakistan’s international cricket venues. However, PCB officials believe that with targeted investment and modernisation, the ground has the potential to meet international requirements.
If the plan moves forward, hosting PSL matches in Azad Kashmir would be a symbolic and practical milestone, promoting inclusivity, regional development, and national unity through sport. It would also strengthen Pakistan’s image as a country committed to spreading cricket opportunities across all regions.
