The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is one of Pakistan’s premier cricket venues, established in 1992 with the aim of strengthening Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure ahead of the 1996 Cricket World Cup. It became the 14th Test venue of Pakistan when it hosted its first Test match against Zimbabwe in December 1993.
With a seating capacity of around 15,000 spectators, the stadium is moderately sized but has hosted some of the biggest cricketing events, including ICC tournaments and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Its proximity to Islamabad (just 3 miles away) makes it one of the most accessible and important cricket stadiums in the country.
The ground has seen upgrades over the years, including floodlights for day-night matches, better seating arrangements, and modern broadcasting facilities. It continues to serve as a major hub for international, domestic, and franchise cricket.
📍 Location
- City: Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan
- Proximity: Only 3 miles (5 km) from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan
- Accessibility: Well connected by road and public transport, drawing fans from both Rawalpindi and Islamabad
🏏 Cricket History
- First ODI: January 1992 – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (Pakistan won by 117 runs).
- First Test: December 1993 – Pakistan vs Zimbabwe (Rawalpindi became Pakistan’s 14th Test venue).
- World Cup Matches: Hosted games during the 1996 Cricket World Cup, marking its international prominence.
- Pakistan Super League (PSL): Became a home ground for Islamabad United.
- Return of International Cricket: After years of security challenges, Rawalpindi hosted Sri Lanka (2019) and South Africa (2021), becoming a symbol of cricket’s revival in Pakistan.
🌟 Key Highlights
- Seating Capacity: 15,000 spectators
- Modern floodlights for day-night matches
- Hosted 1996 World Cup matches
- Pakistan’s 14th Test venue
- Close to Islamabad, allowing national accessibility
- Venue for several PSL matches and international comebacks
🎯 Famous Matches
- 1992 ODI: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Pakistan won by 117 runs.
- 1993 Test: Pakistan vs Zimbabwe – Rawalpindi’s first-ever Test match.
- 1996 World Cup: Hosted group-stage matches.
- 2019 Test: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – historic as Test cricket returned to Pakistan after 10 years.
- 2021 Test: Pakistan vs South Africa – marked South Africa’s first tour to Pakistan in 14 years.
🎉 Fan Experience
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium offers fans a vibrant and passionate cricket atmosphere. With spectators coming in from both Rawalpindi and Islamabad, matches here often feel like a festival of cricket. The compact size of the stadium means fans are close to the action, creating an electric environment.
The stadium’s upgraded facilities – seating, floodlights, and media boxes – enhance the overall experience. Fans especially enjoy PSL matches, which feature live entertainment, music, and fireworks. For Pakistani cricket lovers, watching a match in Rawalpindi is both emotional and exciting.
