An Overview of Ayub Stadium, Quetta

Located in Quetta, Balochistan, Ayub National Stadium (previously known as the Balochistan Cricket Association Ground) is a multi-purpose venue. Primarily used for football matches, it’s part of the Ayub Sports Complex. This complex boasts a football pitch, tartan track, indoor game halls, handball court, and even two hockey turfs. The famous Bugti stadium is situated right next to this one.

In this blog, Graana.com brings you a comprehensive guide to the Ayub National Stadium, Quetta. 

Highlights 

Ayub National Stadium: A History of Cricket, Football, and Challenges

Ayub National Stadium, is capable of accommodating up to 20,000 spectators and has a long history of holding international athletic events. It is one of the top cricket stadiums in Pakistan.

Situated at 30°12′14′′N 66°59′53′′E in Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan, it hosted One Day International (ODI) cricket matches between India and Pakistan in 1978 and 1984. Remarkably, Ayub National Stadium hosted the inaugural One-Day International (ODI) cricket match between these two countries in this format in 1978.

The stadium also included a stage for football. It staged the first game of Pakistan and India’s three-game friendly series on June 12, 2005, which resulted in a 1-1 draw. In 2016 and 2017, the location hosted the Balochistan Football Cup, which carried on this tradition.

But mishandling and carelessness had their price. The stadium deteriorated over time and was left without even the most basic amenities, such as a pavilion and a suitable grass pitch for play. The venue’s main function shifted to political gatherings, which accelerated its deterioration.

Renovation and Renewed Use 

Fortunately, in March 2018, things took a different turn. In an effort to bring back athletic events to the stadium, renovations were started before 2019 National Games of Pakistan.

This refurbishment was a success. The Ufone 4G Balochistan Football Cup 2021 was held in November 2021 at the stadium. That tournament included the championship game between Muslim FC and Baloch Quetta,

It even had a major impact on Pakistan’s 2023 National Games. The stadium is part of the Ayub Sports Complex, which is a hub for multiple indoor sports. Some of those sports include handball, squash, tennis, volleyball, badminton, basketball, and martial arts. Football, tug-of-war, and athletics were all held in the stadium.

Recent Setback 

Even with the good progress, a new problem surfaced in the latter part of 2023. The running track at the stadium required immediate repairs because to considerable damage caused by political rallies organised by JUI-F, Pakistan Peoples Party, and PKMAP.

Highest Partnerships by Runs (ODI Matches)

Highest Partnerships by Runs (T20 Matches)

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