A bold new sign declaring “Imran Khan Cricket Stadium” now adorns Peshawar’s Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium, installed on Sunday amid significant opposition.
Workers mounted the nameplate during a major renovation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s sole international cricket venue, which has been in operation since 1984. The stadium was originally named in honour of former sports minister Arbab Niaz Muhammad. The renaming has sparked controversy involving political parties, Niaz’s family, and even former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who reportedly objected to the change.
Read: KP Cabinet Renames Peshawar’s Arbab Niaz Stadium to Imran Khan Cricket Stadium
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor criticized the renaming as “inappropriate.” Despite this, the new signage remains, marking a contentious shift during the facility’s upgrade.
Peshawar Imran Khan Cricket Stadium! pic.twitter.com/bm8We45DBc
— Khalid Khan Supari (@SupariKhan) April 2, 2025The Arbab Niaz Stadium has not hosted an international cricket match since the Pakistan-India ODI on February 6, 2006, largely due to security concerns. Although prospects for hosting Pakistan Super League (PSL) games this year are uncertain, an ICC team has recently evaluated the site, considering its potential for future international cricket and PSL events.
Constructed in 1984, the stadium’s legacy as a cricket stronghold contrasts sharply with its 19-year absence from the international scene. The decision to rename it after Imran Khan—implemented amidst renovations has ignited a debate over whether this acts as a tribute to a cricket legend or an erasure of historical significance. With ongoing upgrades, the stadium’s reemergence as a prominent cricket venue will depend on improved security measures and the resolution of current controversies.
