Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan |
| Capacity | 34,238 spectators |
| Established | April 21, 1955 |
| First Test Match | February 26 – March 1, 1955: Pakistan vs. India |
| First ODI | November 21, 1980: Pakistan vs West Indies |
| First T20I | April 20, 2008: Pakistan vs Bangladesh |
| Notable Records | Viv Richards’ 181 against Sri Lanka (1987), Mohammad Yousuf’s 9th century (2006) |
National Stadium Karachi
National Stadium in Karachi is a prominent cricket venue in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. Established on April 21, 1955, it has witnessed numerous historic matches and significant events in cricket history. With a seating capacity of 34,238, it stands as one of Pakistan’s largest and most iconic cricket stadiums.
The stadium hosted its first Test match from February 26 to March 1, 1955 featuring Pakistan and India. Over the years, it has become a fortress for the Pakistan cricket team. Pakistan have a remarkable Test record, having lost only twice in 45 matches. It also hosted its first ODI on November 21, 1980, between Pakistan and West Indies. The first T20I was on April 20, 2008, against Bangladesh.
National Stadium Karachi has been the stage for numerous unforgettable moments. Viv Richards’s stunning 181 against Sri Lanka in 1987 and Mohammad Yousuf’s record-breaking ninth century in 2006. The stadium underwent extensive renovations in 2017. It included new public amenities, media galleries, and VIP boxes, enhancing the overall experience for spectators and players alike. Since October 2022, it has been officially named the National Bank Cricket Arena.
Home to teams like the Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League and the Sindh cricket team, the stadium continues to be a vital part of Pakistan’s cricketing landscape. The stadium not only serves as a venue for thrilling cricketing action but also symbolizes the rich heritage and passion for the sport in the region.
National Stadium Champions Trophy schedule
| Date | Match | Time |
|---|---|---|
| February 19, 2025 | Pakistan vs New Zealand | 14:30 |
| February 21, 2025 | Afghanistan vs South Africa | 14:30 |
| February 27, 2025 | Pakistan vs Bangladesh | 14:30 |
| March 1, 2025 | South Africa vs England | 14:30 |
National Stadium, Karachi ODI stats
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Highest Total | 329/6 by Pakistan vs. India (2004) |
| Lowest Total | 73 all out by New Zealand vs. Pakistan (2023) |
| Most Runs | Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 1,065 runs |
| Best Bowling | Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan) – 7/37 |
| Most Wickets | Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan) – 36 wickets |
| Average First Innings Score | 301 |
| Average Second Innings Score | 286 |
| Winning Percentage (Batting First) | 37.5% |
| Winning Percentage (Bowling First) | 62.5% |
National Stadium, Karachi T20I stats
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Highest Total | 203/4 by Pakistan vs. Bangladesh (2016) |
| Lowest Total | 60/9 by Pakistan vs. New Zealand (2018) |
| Most Runs | Babar Azam (Pakistan) – 315 runs |
| Best Bowling | Umar Gul (Pakistan) – 5/6 |
| Most Wickets | Umar Gul (Pakistan) – 15 wickets |
| Average First Innings Score | 190 |
| Average Second Innings Score | 180 |
| Winning Percentage (Batting First) | 60% |
| Winning Percentage (Bowling First) | 40% |
National Stadium, Karachi Test stats
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Highest Total | 765/6 by Pakistan vs. India (2007) |
| Lowest Total | 53 all out by New Zealand vs. Pakistan (2023) |
| Most Runs | Younis Khan (Pakistan) – 1,065 runs |
| Best Bowling | Imran Khan (Pakistan) – 8/60 |
| Most Wickets | Imran Khan (Pakistan) – 43 wickets |
| Average First Innings Score | 328 |
| Average Second Innings Score | 307 |
| Winning Percentage (Batting First) | 48.8% |
| Winning Percentage (Bowling First) | 51.2% |
National Stadium Karachi FAQs
The National Stadium was established on April 21, 1955.
The stadium has a seating capacity of 34,238 spectators.
The Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League and the Sindh cricket team call the National Stadium their home ground.
Some notable records include Viv Richards’ 181 against Sri Lanka in 1987 and Mohammad Yousuf’s ninth century in 2006.
The stadium underwent extensive renovations in 2024, which included new public amenities, media galleries, and VIP boxes to enhance the overall experience for spectators and players alike.
