The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a substantial investment in the comfort and convenience of its players by acquiring a high-rise building situated close to the iconic Qaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Sources within the PCB reveal that a staggering amount of Rs4 billion has been disbursed for the purchase, with the building currently in the final stages of construction.
Originally slated to be a residential tower, the structure is now set to transform into a luxurious seven-star hotel, catering specifically to the needs of cricket teams and officials. This strategic move aims to streamline team travel logistics while enhancing safety measures, addressing longstanding challenges faced by international teams during their visits.
One of the primary objectives behind this acquisition is to provide a secure and convenient lodging option for visiting teams. Typically, international teams are accommodated in five-star hotels in other parts of the city, necessitating extensive security arrangements for their commute to the stadium. The new seven-star hotel, located in close proximity to the Qaddafi Stadium, aims to alleviate these logistical hurdles.
The transaction originated from PCB’s concerns regarding a building being developed near the stadium, citing security reasons. This led to a legal standoff with the building’s owner, who had already received deposits for apartments within the structure. Consequently, construction on the building was halted. However, the recent acquisition has resulted in a mutually beneficial settlement between the PCB and the building’s owner.
In addition to offering a comfortable stay for players and officials, the new hotel is expected to serve as a hub for cricket-related activities, providing state-of-the-art facilities for training, meetings, and team gatherings. With extensive renovations planned to tailor the building to its new purpose, the PCB envisions a seamless and secure environment for both local and visiting teams.
This groundbreaking move by the PCB reflects its commitment to elevating the standards of cricketing infrastructure in Pakistan, ensuring a world-class experience for players and spectators alike. As construction gears up to transform this high-rise into a cricketing haven, anticipation mounts for the inaugural stay of teams in the upcoming season. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting development.
