Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad Hosts International Cricket After 17 Years

International cricket returns to Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad after a gap of 17 years as Pakistan takes on South Africa in a three-match ODI series starting November 4, 2025. The historic cricket ground in Punjab will host all three matches with the series concluding on November 8.

Cricket fans in Faisalabad are excited about the return of international matches to their city. However, concerns remain about the stadium’s condition despite its historic significance in Pakistan cricket.

The venue last hosted an international match in 2008 before being removed from the international circuit.

Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad: Capacity and Facilities

Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad has a seating capacity of 18,000 spectators according to official records. The stadium was established in the early 1970s and was initially named Lyallpur Stadium before being renamed to honor Pakistan’s national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Stadium conditions have raised concerns among fans:

• 90 percent of stands lack proper seating
• Fans sit on bare concrete steps
• No roofing to protect from the weather

Stadium Management Under Scrutiny

The management of Iqbal Stadium does not fall under the Pakistan Cricket Board or the Punjab Sports Board jurisdiction. Instead, the Iqbal Stadium Management Committee controls the venue with nine government officials and local businessmen serving as members.

According to documents obtained under the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act: –

• The committee earned over 63 million rupees annually
• Committee spending: 30.9 million rupees
• The stadium complex covers more than 36 kanals
• Includes over 100 commercial shops, offices, restaurants and facilities

Pakistan vs South Africa ODI Series Schedule

The Pakistan and South Africa cricket teams arrived in Faisalabad on November 2, 2025 ahead of the ODI series. Both teams completed their practice sessions at Iqbal Stadium on November 3 with Pakistan training in the evening session.

Pakistan vs South Africa ODI Series Schedule:

Historic Matches at Faisalabad Cricket Ground:

Formally, Lyallpur Stadium in Faisalabad has witnessed several historic cricket moments over the years. The venue’s highest Test innings total of 674 runs was scored by Pakistan against India in October 1984. The lowest innings total recorded was 53 all out by West Indies against Pakistan in October 1986.

Sri Lankan legend Sanath Jayasuriya holds the record for the highest individual score at the ground with 253 runs against Pakistan in October 2004. Pakistani fast bowler Waqar Younis achieved the best bowling figures of 12 wickets for 130 runs in a Test match at this venue.

Calls for Stadium Upgrades

Cricket fans have urged the Punjab government to transfer management of City Stadium Faisalabad to the Pakistan Cricket Board. Supporters want the venue upgraded and maintained similar to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore which regularly hosts international matches with modern facilities.

Security Measures for South Africa Tour

Strict security arrangements were implemented for the South Africa cricket team’s arrival in Faisalabad on November 2. All roads from Faisalabad airport to the city were closed to traffic during the team’s movement with heavy police deployment across the city.

The Punjab government has allocated substantial resources for security during the three-match ODI series. Both teams are staying at secure hotels in Faisalabad with police providing round-the-clock protection throughout the series.

Traffic plan for Pakistan Vs South Africa ODI Series in Faisalabad

Please remember your new gate number for a smooth entry to Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.

Smog Threatens Cricket Season at Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad

Faisalabad is battling intense smog as it ranks second among Pakistan’s most polluted cities, with an alarming AQI of 563 recorded recently, marking it as hazardous under the US air quality standard.

With international cricket returning to Iqbal Stadium after 17 years, the toxic air poses serious health risks for both players and spectators. Cleaner air will protect lives and strengthen Faisalabad’s image as millions worldwide watch the matches.