Multan, known as the 'City of Saints,' is home to one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in Pakistan. Despite its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans, many feel that the Multan Cricket Stadium has not been given its fair share of international matches. In this article, we dive deep into its history, milestones, and the current hosting challenges.
To know which Indian player scored a memorable triple century at this ground, read the article till the end.
Multan Cricket Stadium History and Establishment
The Multan Cricket Stadium was established in 2001 to replace the old Ibn-e-Qasim Bagh Stadium. Located off Vehari Road, it quickly became a favorite for its lush green outfield and state-of-the-art facilities. The Multan Cricket Stadium capacity is approximately 35,000 spectators, making it one of the largest and most atmospheric venues in the country.
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The First International Match in Multan
The journey of this venue began with a historic Test match. The first international match in Multan was played in August 2001 between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Pakistan won that match convincingly, marking a grand opening for the newly built stadium.
Virender Sehwag 300 Multan: A Historic Milestone
One of the most unforgettable moments in cricket history happened right here. In 2004, India’s Virender Sehwag 300 Multan innings made global headlines. He scored a massive 309 runs, becoming the first Indian to score a triple century in Tests. This performance earned him the nickname "Multan ka Sultan," and the stadium became a part of cricketing folklore forever.
PSL Matches in Multan: A Passionate Crowd
The arrival of league cricket brought a new wave of excitement to the city. While PSL matches in Multan first took place in 2020, the stadium has only hosted a limited number of games. Fans often complain that while Lahore and Karachi host dozens of matches, Multan is often restricted to just 4 or 5 matches per season. The roar of the Multan crowd is unmatched, yet the frequency of games remains low.
Asia Cup 2023 Multan and Beyond
The last major international spotlight on this venue was during the Asia Cup 2023 Multan leg. It hosted the opening ceremony and the first match between Pakistan and Nepal. However, since then, the stadium seems to have been sidelined. Major series against top-tier teams often bypass Multan, leaving the local infrastructure underutilized.
My Personal Thoughts
Personally, Multan Cricket Stadium is one of my favorite stadiums in Pakistan and I will definitely go there one day and watch a live match. This stadium holds a special significance in my eyes. Every cricket fan like me wants more international cricket to happen here.
Conclusion: Does Multan Deserve More?
The Multan Cricket Stadium is more than just a ground; it is a symbol of cricket's deep roots in South Punjab. With its 35,000 capacity and rich history, it deserves a consistent spot on the international calendar. Whether it's the lack of 5-star hotels or logistical issues, the PCB must address these hurdles to ensure that the "Sultans of Multan" get to see world-class cricket more often.
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