Images: BDP Pattern
BDP Pattern has been appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to improve the infrastructure at three of its international venues.
BDP Pattern has proposed designs for enhancing and improving National Bank Stadium in Karachi, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium after carrying out reviews of the three venues.
Redevelopment work will include creating additional tiers in at least two enclosures at Gaddafi Stadium, and upgrading hospitality boxes at National Bank Stadium and Gaddafi Stadium.
National Bank Stadium will also be fitted with new players’ dressing rooms, while new roofs will be designed for Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The project is designed to enhance the fan experience for the 2024-25 cricket season and beyond.
The project is being led by BDP Pattern principal Dipesh Patel, who said: “It is an honour and privilege to work with the PCB on these three legendary cricket grounds. We will ensure that the upgrades improve the fan experience and advance cricket for the next generation. We very much look forward to helping shape the next phase of Pakistani cricket.”
Mohsin Naqvi, PCB chairman and Pakistan Interior Minister, added: “Our fans and spectators are the lifeblood of cricket. They consistently show unwavering support for our national teams and international cricket events. Regrettably, the current condition of our stadiums falls short of providing them with an enjoyable experience, often deterring them from attending live matches.
“Enhancing the spectator friendliness of our stadiums is thus a top priority for me. In this regard, we have made significant strides by appointing internationally recognised BDP Pattern, which specialises in redesigning and redeveloping international sporting arenas. Neglecting the comfort of our fans and commercial partners is no longer an option. It is imperative that we attract not only our local supporters, particularly the younger generation, but also international spectators, thereby contributing to our nation’s economy.”
The PCB recently announced that its second Test match against Bangladesh would be relocated to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium due to redevelopment work at National Bank Stadium. The PCB was advised that while construction could continue during playing hours at National Bank Stadium, the resulting noise pollution would disturb the cricketers.
Pakistan is hosting the ICC Champions Trophy next year, which will mark the first ICC event staged in the country since 1996. The event will take place from February 19 to March 9 and matches will be played at the three venues being upgraded by BDP Pattern.
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