The Gaddafi Stadium in Hafeez Kardar Road, Near Hafeez center Gulberg III, Lahore Pakistan. Established in 1959, it was originally named Lahore Stadium but was later renamed Gaddafi Stadium in honor of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, the Libyan leader. The stadium has become a symbol of Pakistan’s passion for cricket and a hub for international matches.
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History:
Gaddafi Stadium, located in Lahore, Pakistan, is a historic venue with a rich and vibrant history. Named after the former Libyan leader, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, the stadium was inaugurated in 1959. Originally known as Lahore Stadium, it was renamed in 1974 to honor Gaddafi, who played a key role in the development of Pakistan-Libya relations. Over the years, Gaddafi has witnessed numerous iconic cricket moments, hosting both domestic and international matches.
The stadium has undergone several renovations to enhance its facilities and accommodate the growing cricket fervor in the region. One of its notable features is the unique architecture of its pavilions, creating an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere for cricket enthusiasts. Gaddafi has been a witness to historic cricket events, including the 1996 Cricket World Cup matches held in Pakistan.
Apart from cricket, the stadium has also hosted various cultural and entertainment events, contributing to its status as a versatile venue. With its capacity to hold thousands of spectators, Gaddafi Stadium remains a symbol of Pakistan’s passion for cricket and a significant chapter in the nation’s sporting history.
Capacity & Overview:
Gaddafi is a famous cricket venue that also hosts matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), a popular T20 cricket tournament. The stadium has a capacity to accommodate around 27,000 spectators. It’s named after the former Libyan leader, Muammar Gaddafi. With its large seating capacity, Gaddafi provides an exciting atmosphere for cricket fans to enjoy thrilling matches during the PSL season.
Architecture:
Gaddafi is a renowned cricket stadium with a rich architectural history. The stadium was named after Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, the former Libyan leader, as a symbol of Pakistan-Libya friendship. Designed by architect Nayyar Ali Dada, the stadium’s architecture merges traditional Mughal influences with modern elements. The iconic red-bricked facade and grand archways reflect Mughal architecture. The seating arrangement is carefully planned to provide excellent views of the cricket field, ensuring a memorable experience for spectators. The stadium has undergone renovations to meet international standards, including improved facilities and enhanced security.
Gaddafi Stadium pitch:
The Gaddafi pitch is renowned for its favorable conditions for both batsmen and bowlers. The playing surface is traditionally flat, providing batsmen with a good bounce and even pace. On the other hand, the pitch also offers assistance to bowlers, especially during the initial overs, where seam movement can be observed.
Pitch Records: The average first-innings score at Stadium varies depending on the format of the game. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), teams often score around 250-270 runs, while in Test matches, the scores tend to be higher, ranging between 350-400. The grounds keeping team at Stadium is known for maintaining a high-quality pitch that ensures an exciting and balanced contest between bat and ball. Overall, the pitch at Gaddafi Stadium adds to the thrill and competitive nature of cricket matches held at this iconic venue.
Essential Information:
- Dimensions: The stadium has a circular design with a playing area that conforms to international standards.
- Boundary Length: The boundary length is a crucial factor in cricket, and Stadium’s dimensions provide a fair challenge for both batting and bowling teams.
- Floodlights: The introduction of floodlights has allowed the stadium to host day-night matches, adding a new dimension to the cricketing experience.
For More: How to Watch PSL Livestreaming
PSL Records at Gaddafi Stadium:
| Record | Team | Opponent |
| Highest Team Score | Lahore Qalandars | Islamabad United |
| Most Sixes in an Innings | Karachi Kings | Multan Sultans |
| Largest Margin of Victory | Peshawar Zalmi | Quetta Gladiators |