PESHAWAR — A landmark moment for Peshawar cricket arrives this Saturday as the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium charity match brings together Peshawar Zalmi and Legends XI in a high-profile exhibition game. Scheduled for August 30 at 1 PM, the match aims to raise millions for flood-affected families across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
Featuring Pakistan’s biggest stars — Shahid Afridi, Younis Khan, Babar Azam, and Kamran Akmal, the event combines cricketing passion with humanitarian relief marking the stadium’s first official match since its long-delayed renovation.
Stadium Comeback with Purpose
The Imran Khan Cricket Stadium, renovated after eight years, now boasts modern facilities including new dressing rooms and state-of-the-art VVIP enclosures. With a capacity of 17,000 spectators, it is set to welcome fans for what officials describe as “a historic sporting and humanitarian event.”
Commissioner Peshawar Division Riaz Khan Mehsud said during a ticket-launch ceremony at Nishtar Hall that district administrations and business leaders are mobilized to maximize sales. “This is not just a cricket match. It is a chance for all of us to stand with flood victims,” he remarked.
Tickets, Donations and Government Support
Tickets have been priced at:
- Rs1,000 – General
- Rs10,000 – VIP
- Rs50,000 – VVIP (200 seats only)
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and his cabinet have already purchased VVIP tickets signaling provincial government support. Officials confirmed that 100% of proceeds will go directly to flood-hit families in KP.
Tickets are available at 20 locations across Peshawar ensuring wide accessibility for fans.
Humanitarian Urgency, Scale of Flood Disaster
The charity match comes amid one of Pakistan’s most devastating monsoon seasons. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):
- 785 deaths nationwide due to floods since June
- 465 deaths in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa alone
- 661 km of roads destroyed
- 234 bridges washed away
- 4,700 homes flattened
- 5,400 livestock lost
The disaster has crippled transport, livelihoods and access to services leaving thousands dependent on emergency relief.
Legends Return to Peshawar Cricket
For the first time in 19 years, international-standard players will step onto the field in Peshawar. The Legends XI featuring Shahid Afridi and Younis Khan will face off against Babar Azam-led Zalmi stars, making the exhibition more than just symbolic.
Former Test captain Younis Khan called the match “a gift of hope” for KP’s people. “Sports can heal and unite communities in hard times. We are here to play for Pakistan beyond the boundary,” he said.
Why This Match Matters
Cricket remains Pakistan’s most unifying force and Saturday’s match is expected to be a full house. The return of top players to Peshawar is also seen as a step towards reviving international cricket in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a region that has long been sidelined from major sporting action due to security and infrastructure challenges.
Analysts say the event will not only generate much-needed relief funds but also restore confidence in Peshawar as a viable host city for future cricketing events.
