Faisalabad, November 3: Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson has hailed the long-awaited return of international cricket to Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, as the historic venue gears up to host its first One Day International (ODI) in 17 years.
The upcoming three-match ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa, starting Tuesday (November 4), marks a major milestone in Faisalabad’s cricketing revival — ending a nearly two-decade hiatus since it last hosted an international fixture in 2008.
Hesson Praises Warm Welcome in Faisalabad
Hesson, who is overseeing Pakistan’s white-ball setup for the home series, took to social media to express his excitement and gratitude for the city’s hospitality.
“Personally, this is my first time in Faisalabad, as well as the first international match to be played here for 17 years,” Hesson wrote.
“The Faisalabad locals have been incredibly friendly and welcoming. We are all looking forward to the start of the ODI series, hoping to put on a show for the people of Pakistan,” he added.
The New Zealand-born coach, who previously guided the Black Caps to the 2015 World Cup final, emphasized that Faisalabad’s enthusiasm reflects Pakistan’s growing passion for hosting international cricket across multiple cities.
Cricket Returns to Iqbal Stadium After 17 Years
The Iqbal Cricket Stadium — once a regular venue for international fixtures — last hosted an ODI between Pakistan and Bangladesh in 2008. Known for its lively crowds and flat batting tracks, the stadium has witnessed several memorable matches over the decades, featuring legends like Wasim Akram, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Saeed Anwar.
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to bring international cricket back to Faisalabad is seen as part of a broader effort to expand the sport beyond major centers like Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, giving fans across the country a chance to witness top-level cricket live.
Pakistan vs South Africa ODI Series Details
The much-anticipated ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa will feature a star-studded lineup from both sides. The matches will be played exclusively at Iqbal Stadium from November 4 to November 8.
Pakistan Squad:
Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.
South Africa Squad:
Matthew Breetzke (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Lizaad Williams.
Series Schedule:
Nov 4: 1st ODI – Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Nov 6: 2nd ODI – Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Nov 8: 3rd ODI – Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
A New Dawn for Faisalabad Cricket Fans
The return of international cricket to Faisalabad has sparked excitement among local fans and former cricketers, many of whom recall the city’s golden days as a prominent cricketing hub. The revival also boosts local businesses and tourism, as fans from across Punjab are expected to travel to witness the high-voltage action.
For Pakistan, the series also carries significance ahead of next year’s ICC events, offering a chance to fine-tune their combination under the new coaching setup led by Mike Hesson and Shaheen Afridi.
As Faisalabad prepares to light up once again with the sound of cheering crowds and bat-on-ball echoes, the city’s return to the international spotlight symbolizes Pakistan’s cricketing resurgence and regional inclusivity.
