LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation (SACF) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop an international-standard cricket stadium in Jeddah, marking a significant step toward expanding cricket infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
The agreement was signed on Thursday by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the Chairman of the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation during a formal ceremony.
What does the agreement include?
Under the MoU, the PCB and SACF will collaborate on the construction of a modern cricket stadium in Jeddah that meets international standards for hosting global cricket events.
The partnership also includes cooperation on cricket infrastructure development, operational standards, technical expertise and initiatives aimed at strengthening the sport across Saudi Arabia.
What did PCB say about the partnership?
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the board was committed to supporting the growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia, describing the agreement as an opportunity to strengthen sporting cooperation between the two countries.
He said the initiative would contribute to promoting cricket in the Kingdom while further enhancing the longstanding bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
How did the Saudi Cricket Federation respond?
The Chairman of the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation described the agreement as an important milestone for the future of cricket in the Kingdom.
He said the partnership extends beyond the construction of a stadium and will also focus on long-term cricket development through technical cooperation, infrastructure expansion and player development initiatives.
How does the agreement build on previous cooperation?
The MoU follows discussions held during Mohsin Naqvi’s visit to Saudi Arabia in December 2024, when he offered Pakistan’s support in developing cricket facilities and promoting the sport across the Kingdom.
During that visit, Naqvi also proposed a player exchange programme under which emerging Saudi cricketers would receive training in Pakistan and invited Saudi cricket officials to attend the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
The latest agreement reflects growing sports cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom continues to invest in expanding its international sporting infrastructure.